Interesting to see I tag the classic Australian blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz as shiraz/cabernet. More proof that I’m a profoundly odd person I guess. I’ll change the tag now. This is 65%/35%, so the Cabernet is dominant. In wine circles, you may well ask “When isn’t it?”
I loved the last two vintages of this wine. I had a bottle of the 2007 at Stradbroke just a few months back. Lovely wine. So it’s a little sad to have to say that the 2008 doesn’t fill me with enthusiasm. Liquorice, vanilla, spice, toasty oak, blackberry jam, stewed plums, lavender, tobacco leaf and chocolate. The flavours aren’t that different to the 07 but the fruit seems cooked. Difficult vintage of course, so that could be the explanation.
And yes, there is a distinct salty note in the wine. But I’ve no problem with that. In fact it kinda scares me to mention it. I’d hate the “salt” descriptor to wreak havoc with the Barossa in the same way “Eucalyptus/Mint” has done with Langhorne.
Nope, it seems to me the fruit is the problem. It just leaves the wine wanting in terms of freshness and vitality for me. Grab some more of the 2007 if you see it.
Winery Website- http://www.yalumba.com/
Thanks for the tip JP!
I too loved the 06 but especially 07 of this and have been tempted to pick up a bottle of the 08, but haven't yet. Your tasting notes here are much appreciated.
Someone else may rate it Chris, but I certainly don't think it lives up to the 2007. Now, if I only had some of the 2007 left…
I may be able to find some more of that vintage in Brisbane. It's a retail wonderland of sorts here
Won Silver at 2009 Great Australian Red Competition, so there you go…
GARC is better than most wine shows IMHO.