Cowaramup Wines

http://www.cowaramupwines.com.au/

Clown Fish & Cowaramup Wines are located in the heart of the Margaret River wine region between the township of Cowaramup and the Indian Ocean. The vineyard is situated on the gentle slopes of the upper reaches of Ellensbrook. Established in 1996 by the Reynolds family the vineyard has developed to over 42 acres in size offering such varieties as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Shiraz, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Since its inception a strong emphasis has been adopted on implementing Biodynamic and Organic practices in the vineyard.
Clown Fish is the first range of wines produced by Cowaramup Wines. A real family affair with owners Russell and Marilyn over seeing operations, sons Cameron (Viticulturist) and Anthony ( Winemaker ) working together to produce wines of the highest quality that are a true expression of the “terroir” of this location.

Clownfish Chardonnay 2008

What a lovely, fresh young thing this Chardie is. Nectarine and pear bouquet provides immediate appeal while the racy fresh palate sings with a beaut lime drenched tropical fruit intensity.

Score:88/100

Clownfish Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2008

The opening on the nose is a beautifully precise floral expression of the blend with herbal gooseberry and passionfruit aromas. The palate has a lovely medium bodied texture with plenty of deep vibrant lively fruit. It's intense and flavoursome with a crunchy finish.

Score:88/100

Clownfish Merlot Cabernet 2007

Soft and appealingly supple blend with some nice fruitcake flesh and plenty of driving tannin and oak to support it. Balanced finish with those leafy Margaret River Cabernet characters emerging.

Score:86/100

Clownfish Shiraz 2006

I like this less peppery but more spicy offering this year. There is a distinct savoury richness in the palate with firmish tannins and ample oak to keep things happening. A solid slightly chunky Shiraz with substantial power.

Score:88/100

Clownfish Chardonnay 2007 ($19.95)

A fresh and lively fruit driven Chardonnay bursting with enjoyable appealing fruit. Lovely melon and citrus tank and a zippy finish.

Score:87/100

Clownfish Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2007 ($18.95)

A bracing fruit driven blend with stacks of bouncy vibrant tropical fruits balanced with a crisp acid and a zippy citrus tang. Thoroughly enjoyable current drinking wine.

Score:86/100

Clownfish Merlot Cabernet 2006 ($18.95)

The dominant fruit cake and black currant Merlot makes for a deliciously appealing opening. The firmish structure with its fine tannins and subtle oak fill the palate with lovely succulent juicy flavours.

Score:90/100

Clown Fish Sauvignon Blanc Semillon 2009 ($20)

There is a beautiful purity and precision about this lively fresh young blended white. Tight minerally thread is a feature of the vintage and it’s quite evident in this wine. Nice herbal tropical fruits and a dash of lime juice to finish.

Score:89/100
Cellar: 3 years

Clown Fish Merlot Cabernet 2008 ($20)

Has a little more spine and substance to the previous vintage. It’s medium weight with nice red berry and minty characters. The fine tannins and silky fine grained oak combine easily on an effortless palate. Controlled and elegant. Nice wine for drinking over the next few years. The oak has been especially well handled.

Score:90/100
Cellar: 5 years