A ripe Cabernet with some warmth on the finish. It still possesses a significant degree of elegance and purity though. There’s a fair clip of French oak as well – fifteen months in 50% new and 50% one year old oak barriques – but I’ve always been of the opinion that the variety can take it. Of course you’re going to have play the waiting game to get the most out of it.
Throws out a fragrant perfume of violets, blackberry, bay leaf and pouch tobacco. Pencil shavings and chocolate to taste. A little bit of extra stuffing courtesy of 10% Malbec; a well judged addition that. It has length, focus, shape and intensity. Highly structured. Apart from the alcohol popping its head up slightly at the end the balance is very good. 93
Region: Great Southern
Alcohol: 14.8%
Closure: Screwcap
Price: $32
Tasted: August 2013