Robert Oatley Helmsman Cabernet Merlot

Description

Robert Oatley Helmsman Cabernet Merlot is made from grapes sourced from the Central Ranges, an area which comprises Cowra, Orange & Mudgee in New South Wales. The Helmsman range of wines is designed to be fresh and vibrant, demonstrate varietal character and is perfect for everyday drinking.

Robert Oatley Vineyards, which was founded by wine industry legend Bob Oatley in 2006, has vineyards in Western Australia, South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria. Sadly Bob Oatley died in January 2016 but his son Sandy has taken the helm and the company remains in safe hands. He is ably assisted by Chris Hancock, the Deputy Executive Chairman who has been working for Robert Oatley for 40 years (he also makes some good wines under the Hancock & Hancock label including an excellent Cabernet / Touriga Nacional and a Fiano).

Director of Winemaking is Larry Cherubino who joined the company in 2012 and is widely recognised as one of the most talented winemakers in Australia. Under his guidance, Robert Oatley Vineyards has identified some of the best vineyards in their respective regions that show a true sense of the land. The grapes for Oatley’s wines come from various key vineyard regions across Australia from both vineyards that the family own and from select growers with whom they work in long-term partnerships. They also own three wineries in Mudgee, McLaren Vale and Margaret River (where Larry Cherubino is based).

Robert Oatley Helmsman Cabernet Merlot undergoes a traditional red wine vinification in stainless steel tanks in order to retain as much fruit flavour profile as possible. The wine is a blend of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 11% other varieties.

Why Is It Called Helmsman?

Helmsman celebrates Bob Oatley’s helmsmanship of his racing yacht, Wild Oats XI, which won the difficult 628 nautical mile Sydney to Hobart yacht race eight times.