Pierro, Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot LTCF, Margaret River

Christmas Eve dinner ~ Crimson colour with a ring of brick colouring around the rim. Seems a bit young for that brick colour... but the aroma was perfect. Dried dark berries, earthy notes with a touch of forest floor and gum tree. Medium-full bodied, medium legs, and a slightly coarse texture (that we loved:). Well-balanced with good gripping, yet not puckery (?) tannins. Loved the finish - perfectly paired with lamb in a florentine sauce.

Grand Cru Cabernet (United Cellars, 140 William Street, Sydney) : Sweet spice, a little farty blackcurrant, a little herbaceous lift. Juicy and a little non-descript on the palate for me. Hmm.

Yes, a little touch of Cabernet Franc in this blend. 60% Cabernet, balance Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc. Cassis, mulberries and red fruits, lovely balance – has a ripeness without being too ripe. Good persistence of flavour.

Pierro - Cellar Door Tasting (Pierro Vineyard, 4051 Caves Rd, Wilyabrup WA 6280, Australia) : Drank at the cellar door. Has some PV and Malbec as well (about 1% of each). Purple-tinged transparent ruby. Nose is very fruit driven with sweet pearl violets candy. Palate is beautifully elegant and a balanced acidic freshness plus those violets again that overwhelm the blackberry fruit. Some saddle leather. A bit sweet. A work in progress but not convinced.