TASTING NOTES FOR Chain Of Ponds Novello Cabernet Merlot Adelaide Hills 2021

🍷 Appearance
Deep plum red with a vibrant purple hue. Rich and inviting, showing excellent colour intensity.

👃 Aromas
Lifted and fruit-driven, with blackcurrant, mulberry and redcurrant leading the nose.
Layers of blueberry, raspberry and subtle dried herbs unfold, with hints of wild mint, chocolate and gentle oak spice adding complexity.

👅 Palate
Medium to full-bodied and juicy, delivering generous flavours of blackcurrant, plum and red berries.
Chocolate and mocha notes from oak integration add depth, while the fruit remains vibrant and expressive throughout.

🍈 Texture & Finish
Smooth and velvety with soft, rounded tannins.
Balanced acidity keeps the wine fresh, finishing long with lingering dark fruit, spice and a subtle savoury edge.

🍇 Overall Style
A modern Adelaide Hills Cabernet Merlot—rich, fruit-forward and highly approachable.
Combines Cabernet structure with Merlot softness, delivering a plush, crowd-pleasing style with excellent drinkability.

🍽️ Food Pairing
Perfect with grilled steaks, roast lamb, charcuterie or hearty pasta dishes. Also pairs well with richer dishes like butter chicken or mushroom risotto.

🥂 BBD Verdict
A seriously good-value red that delivers richness, softness and flavour in spades.
Ideal for mixed dozens where you want a reliable, easy-drinking Cabernet blend that still shows depth and character—this is a real crowd-pleaser that over-delivers for the price.

Cheers
Peter Turnbull
Better Buy The Dozen 🍷