McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone

McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone: A Margaret River Bordeaux Blend Masterpiece

The McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone emerges as the pinnacle of the winery's red wine production. Hailing from the acclaimed Hazel's Vineyard in Margaret River, Western Australia, this Bordeaux blend embodies the meticulous viticultural practices and dedication to quality championed by McHenry Hohnen. This tasting note delves into the sensory experience of Rolling Stone, exploring its aromatic profile, flavour characteristics, and overall appeal.

A Nose that Captivates

Upon swirling the wine in the glass, the Rolling Stone unveils a captivating aromatic tapestry. The initial approach is dominated by the classic Cabernet Sauvignon imprint, offering alluring notes of cassis, blackcurrant, and cedarwood. As the wine opens further, hints of ripe plum and mulberry emerge, interwoven with subtle nuances of violets and earth. The influence of Malbec adds a touch of peppery spice, while the Merlot contributes a hint of red cherry and cocoa. This complex interplay of aromas is further enriched by the judicious use of French oak, whispering suggestions of vanilla, tobacco, and baking spices. The overall impression is one of elegance and refinement, hinting at the depth of flavour to come.

A Symphony of Flavours on the Palate

The Rolling Stone translates its captivating nose into a symphony of flavours on the palate. The entry is plush and textural, with the Cabernet Sauvignon providing a well-structured core of blackcurrant and cassis. The Malbec steps forward, gracing the mid-palate with its characteristic peppery spice, which is beautifully balanced by the smooth, rounded character of the Merlot. Hints of plum and mulberry add a touch of juicy sweetness, while the earth and cedarwood notes add complexity and intrigue. The French oak influence is seamless, imparting subtle hints of vanilla and spice that complement the fruit profile without overwhelming it. The tannins are firm yet fine-grained, promising excellent ageing potential. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and power.

A Celebration of Margaret River Terroir

The McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone stands as a testament to the exceptional quality of wines produced in Margaret River. The meticulous biodynamic viticulture employed by McHenry Hohnen allows the Hazel's Vineyard terroir to shine through. Each grape variety – Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Merlot, and Petit Verdot – contributes its unique character, resulting in a harmonious and complex blend. The use of indigenous yeasts and minimal intervention winemaking techniques further emphasises the vineyard's natural expression.

Conclusion: A Wine for Discerning Palates

The McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone is a wine for discerning palates. Its complexity, elegance, and ageing potential make it a truly exceptional offering. Whether enjoyed now with a well-matched meal or cellared for future enjoyment, this Margaret River gem is sure to impress.

Serving Recommendation:

For an optimal drinking experience, decant the McHenry Hohnen Vintners Rolling Stone for at least 30 minutes before serving. Pair it with robust dishes such as grilled red meat, game, or mature cheeses. The wine will also complement dishes that feature earthy flavours, such as mushroom risotto or truffle pasta.