The great Australian blend is relatively rare in Margaret River, but this example demonstrates what is possible at the riper end of the scale. Cabernet blackcurrant fruits take the lead (60%) backed by the blackberry fruit of shiraz and dark chocolate French oak. It holds its brightness and confidence, with finely structured tannins carrying a […]
In the cooler temperatures and extended ripening of the southwest of Margaret River, intense flavours are achieved and acidity is retained. In the warm 2012 season, the result is a South by Southwest of a magnitude that lands it much further north than its bargain price might suggest. A vibrant, medium purple wine with a […]
A Wilyabrup cabernet of drive and definition, with excellent intensity of crunchy, intense blackcurrant and capsicum fruit. Excellent length of long and even fruit persistence, supported by fine-ground tannins that promise medium-term potential. Great value at $20 at Deals Direct, No Frills, ANZ Wines, Wine List Australia and Grays Online.
In a generous season, this is a cabernet blend that stands out for its classical restraint, medium-bodied assurance and effortless potential. Crunchy redcurrant and blackcurrant fruit meets notes of capsicum and a subtle suggestion of tomato, beautifully and impeccably ripe at just 13.8% alcohol. Firm, finely textured tannins and a long finish underlined by well […]
A great value take on the classic Clare blend, uniting fruit brightness with depth of flavour, impeccable varietal definition and outstanding persistence. Depth of signature cabernet black- and redcurrant fruit is impressive, overlaid with violet perfume, leaf and a hint of Clare Valley mint. 35% Malbec adds its savoury complexity and heightened tannin structure; firm […]
Inspired by Margaret River cabernet blends, Paul Hotker has pulled back the volume of Frank Potts and refined it into an elegantly medium-bodied blend of 62% cabernet sauvignon, 18% Malbec, 11% petit verdot, 6% cabernet franc and 3% merlot. Don’t think Langhorne Creek in the classic, full-bodied style. Instead, this is a wine of restraint, […]
This is an intense, generous and expressive Prelude, layered with succulent blackberry and plum fruit, crunchy blackcurrants and notes of black pastilles and liquorice. Its dense fruit core lingers long into the finish, neatly honed by bright acidity, firm, fine tannins and confident oak. Persistence and poise are something to behold, promising a great future. […]
Varietal integrity meets structural endurance in a particularly well-defined vintage for Sami. Classic cabernet black- and redcurrant fruit is accented with capsicum and cedar, contrasting the jubilant black fruits depth of the Barossa with a tannin structure built for the long-hall. A rigid cage of firm, finely textured structure promises to make this one of […]
This is my favourite sub-$50 Bordeaux right now, a blend of almost equal parts merlot and cabernet sauvignon, with a touch of cabernet franc and malbec. 16 months in 30% new oak barrels keeps the wood influence subtle, building a tannin presence for medium-term potential. It’s a classically elegant style of varietal fruit character, clean, […]
Fragrant violet aromas unite with mulberry and blackcurrant fruit of impressive depth and persistence, yet at every moment vibrant, lively and medium-bodied. It’s scaffolded by confident, finely structured, chewy tannins, bright acidity and well-gauged dark chocolate oak. Beautifully balanced and enduring, this is one of the greats from Mount Horrocks. $36 at Mates Crates (2012).