Crafted as an affectionate tribute to Charlie Melton’s father-in-law, Sydney Dean Weckert, this is a cross-regional expression that bridges the family’s premium estates. The fruit is sourced from Charles Melton’s core family vineyards in the Barossa Valley (Krondorf and Lyndoch), alongside Weckert’s own five-acre property, planted in 2000 in the Clare Valley (as Charlie will tell you, against his better judgement, an opinion he has happily changed over the years!). It blends classic Barossa dark-fruit generosity with Clare’s distinctive structural weight and minty lift, finding its own clear identity within the range.
2023
Coolish ferments and a small whole-bunch component, with frequent but gentle cap management lead the vinification of this wine. It matures for nearly two years in French and American oak and is bottled unfined and unfiltered. The nose is a little darker than the previous vintage, with blackberries, dark chocolate and maraschino cherries to the fore. The palate mirrors the aromatics before introducing a subtle sage and oregano undertone, undeniably Clare in character. The generous profile is framed by fine tannins that provide lovely structure.
2022
“A dark crimson colour, there is excellent oak integration here. The nose gives us touches of vanilla, cinnamon, red fruits, raspberries, a hint of cold tea, cherries and a character not unlike a creamy red fruit compote. Generous in style, with a seductive texture and sleek tannins, there is good acidity running the journey. The wine is well balanced and very long. Enjoy this over the next 10–15 years. Charlie may have changed his tune somewhat, given the quality of the fruit. Drink now–2040” The Vintage Journal 2026
92 Points, Dave Brookes, Halliday Wine Companion
2021
“Crimson with aromas of macerated satsuma plum and red/dark cherries with hints of baking spice, licorice, Christmas cake, purple flowers, dark chocolate, roasting meats and earth. It’s at the lighter end of full bodied, with thick, chalky tannins, bright acidity and pure, high-toned berry fruits that flow on nicely at the tail with a morello cherry flourish right on the exit.” 92 Points, Dave Brookes Halliday Wine Companion
