There’s a charred biscuity character on the nose of this wine that very nearly overpowers. Thankfully, there’s also a good deal of brambly red and purple fruit, red licorice, pepper and oak spice, too. The palate is grainy textured with juicy berry fruit, muscular, tightly wound tannins and a slightly bitter oaky finish.
This restrained, well balanced expression of McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon is an ode to the ‘luncheon claret’, but it’s not as green and austere as that favourite lunchtime libation at the gentleman’s club. Early picked fruit from a vineyard with good breeding in the Willunga foothills results in an elegant, varietal style with classic First Drop drinkability.
The Cabs of Australia do not have quite as much richness or alcohol as Cabs from the Napa Valley, or the subtle complexity of the best Bordeauxs. They do, however, possess a beautiful balance of fruit, acidity and tannin. With all of these elements in harmony, these wines are delightful after a few years of aging.
Pairs well with beef, lamb, and poultry dishes.