A refined and elegant expression of Cabernet showing classic notes of cassis, fresh tobacco leaf, and subtle green herbs, with an appealing touch of bell pepper. The addition of Cabernet Franc and Malbec brings complexity and aromatic lift, with subtle cedar notes. This Barossa Cabernet champions restraint and freshness, drawing inspiration from traditional Bordeaux styling of the 1980s. The result is a sophisticated, medium-bodied wine that speaks clearly of both variety and place. Cabernet Sauvignon (93%), Cabernet Franc (3%), Malbec (4%) 12.6% Carefully destemmed fruit underwent a 12 day fermentation in stainless steel, with the Malbec and Cabernet Franc fermented separately in small-format vessels. The wine was aged in French oak barrels, including 20% new oak from central French forests (Allier), crafted in Cognac with light toasting to preserve fruit purity. Total elevage lasted 15 months before bottling with minimal sulfur addition. The core Cabernet fruit comes from 50-year-old vines in our Vine Vale vineyard, providing both vibrancy and old vine complexity. Style: Medium-bodied, dry red wine Vineyard: Lionwill Vineyard, Vine Vale, Barossa Valley, SA Best with: Homemade linguine with an anchovy butter and bread crumb sauce Drinking Window: Now through 2030.
