Grape Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Growing Region: Clare Valley 64%, Coonawarra 36%, Australia

Chief Winemaker: Adam Eggins

TASTING NOTE:
2008 was another year of challenges in the Clare Valley and Coonawarra; yields were slightly below average for Cabernet Sauvignon - but with careful site selection and patience before harvest the wine is showing excellent colour, good varietal distinction and ripeness.

In the winery delicate handling and a lighter than usual oak regime was employed to compliment the intensity of the fruit characters. The grapes were de-stemmed and transferred to potter fermenters where the juice was fermented using a Cabernet-specific yeast. After precise fermentation, the wine was then gently pressed and transferred to French oak hogshead barrels (20% new, 60% 1 year old and 20% 2-3 year old) for malo-lactic fermentation. After just over 12 months in oak, the wine was fined, filtered and bottled in June 2009.

In the glass you have a deep vibrant red, with a crimson edge. On the nose the wine has lifted, aromas of violets, blackcurrant, cassis and liquorice along with complex, earthy aromas of cigar box and subtle note of after-eight dinner mint. On the palate the wine is full-bodied with good balance between fruit and tannins. Ripe flavours of black current and cassis abound, followed by subtle secondary French oak characters of cedar and spice. The tannins are fine and elegant and the finish is long and persistent. Decant for 30-40mins, serve at 18C.

CELLARING POTENTIAL:
Drinking well this winter season; and over the next 4-6 years.

SUGGESTED FOOD MATCHES:
Perfect wine match with game, meaty dishes with wine jus and hard aged cheese, enjoy.

Silver Medal - Int. Wine Challenge 2009.