SUCH is the attention to detail on this property that a maximum of just 5000 cases is produced at Parker Estate at the southern end of Coonawarra. The Estate was established by John Parker in 1985 and is now a 50/50 partnership with James Fairfax. Under the arrangement, the wine is made by Peppertree winemaker Chris Cameron at the Balnaves winery. The arrangement produces very good wine that is sought after across Australia and finds its way into homes in Switzerland, Japan, the UK and Asia.
The wines are produced from predominantly cabernet sauvignon grapes with small additions coming from small plantings of traditional Bordeaux varieties such as merlot, petit verdot and cabernet franc. Only the best parcels of fruit are separated for inclusion in the first growth label. No first growth was made in 1992, 1995 or 1997, as the winemaking team was not entirely happy with the fruit in those years.
You will find these wines in many of the better liquor outlets around town. Alternatively, contact Lionel Samsom Wine Distributors on 9335-7395 to find your closest outlet.
Parker Coonawarra Estate Terra Rossa Cabernet 1999 rrp $25.00 rating 18/20
It hard to call this wine the second label, given the outstanding quality of fruit. This wine shows great attention to detail and just how good that the 1999 vintage was. In another five or six years you will still be getting enjoyment from this ripper. It has a powerful nose that displays a ripe blackcurrant aroma with touches of chocolate, spice and vanilla. The palate is intense, with generous mouthfilling flavour, cassis, prunes, and chocolate. There is integrated acidity and tannins that are not aggressive, but soft and seductive. There is plenty of length and refinement shown on the finish of this wine, which is a real gem among some indifferent 1999 vintage wines.
Parker Coonawarra Estate Terra Rosa First Growth 1999 rrp $60.00 rating 18.25/20
Another cracker from the team producing the Parker wines. Quite a funky nose that leads towards sweaty leather characters with touches of chocolate, mocha and restrained blackberry fruits. The palate screams “hold on for a few years”! It is big, bold and handsome. Powerful yet tight tannins and lively acidity are surrounded by generous fruit that, over time, will entwine and show the remarkable qualities of this wine. Allow yourself a good couple of years’ restraint before sink-ing your teeth into this wine.
