The latter part of the 2006 vintage was very cool and damp, and the Pannell’s had problems ripening and obtaining the structure in the Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon that they would have liked. This has produced a wine which did not quite fit into the Picardy quality range and so they have declassified this wine and are releasing it to the mailing list at $10 per bottle. But don’t be mistaken, this is still a very good wine for the price – indeed better than many merlot cabernets at twice the amount! It’s a great early drinking blend. The aromas are of plum, raspberry, liquorice, earth and vanilla oak. Medium bodied, the palate offers up plum, raspberry, tobacco, earth and cedar flavours – all of which have a gentle underlying sweetness, which is surprising for this vintage. Tannins are loose knit and a little grainy and acidity is clean and fresh. Not a heavyweight, but a delicious friendly style for the winter months, and at a fabulous price! Great with a beef roast or hearty stew.

*Bill and Sandra did a release similar to this with the 1978 Moss Wood Dry red which went on to become known as one of the best value for money wines released from Western Australia.