McAlister 'The McAlister', Gippsland 1996

McAlister The McAlister 1996, Gippsland

Producer: McAlister
Region: Gippsland, Victoria, Australia
Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc
Drinking Window: 2005–2025
Aging Potential: 30+ years

The McAlister 1996 is an exceptional Bordeaux-style blend from the cool climate region of Gippsland, Victoria. This wine exemplifies the power and elegance of long-aged Australian reds, showcasing the skill of McAlister in creating a wine that combines structure, depth, and extraordinary aging potential.

Tasting Notes:

After nearly three decades of careful maturation, The McAlister 1996 reveals a complex and evolved profile. The bouquet opens with fragrant aromas of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dried plum, intertwined with savory notes of leather, cedar, and cigar box. As the wine breathes, secondary aromas of earth, dried herbs, and graphite emerge, adding layers of sophistication.

On the palate, this wine is beautifully balanced with well-integrated tannins. Rich flavors of dark fruit—such as black cherry and cassis—blend with aged characteristics of tobacco, chocolate, and hints of truffle. The finish is long and elegant, with a persistent mineral edge and a touch of spice, reflecting the cool-climate origin of Gippsland.

Producer Details:

McAlister is a boutique producer renowned for crafting age-worthy wines that capture the essence of Gippsland's unique terroir. Known for their meticulous attention to detail, McAlister uses traditional winemaking methods, combining new and old-world techniques to produce wines with balance, complexity, and long-term cellaring potential. The McAlister is their flagship wine, representing the best of their vineyard’s expression.

Wine Details:

• Vinification: Aged in French oak barrels for 18 months before extended bottle maturation.
• Alcohol Content: 13.5% ABV
• Cellar Potential: While at its peak, the wine will continue to drink well through 2025.

Drinking Window:

Now in its mature phase, The McAlister 1996 is drinking beautifully, offering fully developed flavors and silky tannins. Enjoy now through 2025, though it still has potential for additional cellaring for those who prefer more tertiary characteristics in aged wine.

Food Pairing Suggestions: Pair this refined Bordeaux-style blend with slow-cooked meats, lamb shank, or roast beef. It also complements earthy mushroom dishes and aged hard cheeses like cheddar or Gruyère.

Indulge in the rare pleasure of a perfectly aged Australian red with The McAlister 1996—a wine that reflects the enduring elegance and depth of Gippsland’s finest terroir.