The grapes for The Cabernet Sauvignon are sourced from 30+ year old vines in Langhorne Creek located on true ‘floodplain’ soils. Cropping levels from this location are always very low; in 2020 the yield was less than 1.5 tonnes an acre.
Winemaking
The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were crushed and destemmed prior to a 30 day fermentation using natural yeasts. Firm pressing were separated (which go to The Shiraz Cabernet) and the free run/light pressing component was racked to wood pre-MLF. Maturation is in 40% new and 60% one and two year old French barriques over a period of 19 months. Two rackings and regular topping are the only time the wine is disturbed after malo completion. Bottling date is determined when the tannin and oak balance feel right, with a further 6 months spent in bottle prior to release. The traditional approach used to make The Cabernet Sauvignon precludes the use of the additives and fining agents such as tannins, enzymes, egg, fish or milk products. Bottled unfined and unfiltered in September of 2021.
Tasting Notes
Deep red in colour crimson to the hues. The intense aromas offer blackberry and currant notes with nuances of mint and cedar adding complexity. A medium weight style on the palate showing luscious dark red fruits in concert with thyme notes. Long persistence in the mouth showing a hint of toasty oak with refreshing acidity and supporting tannins on the finish. Best from 2022 to 2035.
Technical Information
Alcohol – 14.0% by volume Residual sugar – < 1.0 g/L
Total Acidity – 6.46 g/L Volatile Acidity – 0.74 g/L
pH – 3.57 Sulphur Dioxide – 90 mg/L Total; 32 mg/L Free
Score 94 Halliday Wine Companion (Ned Goodwin MW)
A burly year defined by Duane Coates' precise – and much needed – tannin management. Taut, juicy and alloyed, the tannins serve to anchor a splay of cassis, mint, dried tobacco, sage and graphite into a savoury whole. The oak, the pulley. Maritime salinity defines the finish.