Charles Melton, Nine Popes, MAGNUM, 3x150cl

🍷 Charles Melton ‘Nine Popes’ – Barossa Valley
Country: Australia | Region: South Australia (Barossa Valley)
Appellation: Barossa Valley | Grape Varieties: Grenache, Shiraz, Mataro (GSM)
Style: Red Wine | Winemaking: Hand-harvested; aged in a mix of French and American oak
Farming: Low-yielding old vines, sustainably farmed

🌟 Australia’s Rhône-style icon—rich, layered, and gloriously expressive, ‘Nine Popes’ is a bold Barossa blend with French soul and Aussie flair.

👁 In the Glass:
Deep ruby with purple reflections—vibrant and concentrated.

👃 On the Nose:
Aromatic and complex with dark cherry, blackberry, and raspberry compote, lifted by hints of lavender, anise, dried herbs, and exotic spice. Hints of mocha and toasted oak emerge with time in the glass.

👅 On the Palate:
Full-bodied and velvety, with generous waves of ripe dark fruit and spice. Silky tannins wrap around notes of plum, licorice, black pepper, and a savoury earthiness. Beautifully structured with great finesse and a long, spicy finish.

🍽 Food Pairing:
Outstanding with herb-crusted lamb, slow-cooked beef short ribs, Moroccan tagine, or grilled eggplant with harissa. Also lovely with aged cheddar or blue cheese.

⏳ Enjoyment Window:
Delicious now with decanting, but will reward patient cellaring over the next 10–15 years with increasing complexity.

✨ Why You’ll Love It:
Charles Melton’s Nine Popes is a benchmark Aussie red—blending the elegance of Châteauneuf-du-Pape with the sun-drenched power of the Barossa. A flagship GSM that balances richness and restraint, it’s charismatic, cellar-worthy, and unapologetically expressive.