Reviewed: 23rd November 2013
Devils Lair – Cabernet Sauvignon – 2011 (18/18.5+). Initially this shows a crisp, clear nose that has supple ripe fruit over gentle cedar and spice. The palate is ripe, fleshy and generally delicious. The finish is defined by a sprinkling of fine tannins and fine grained oak. With time in the bottle and glass, the quality of this wine shone through, developing complex, briary notes and real depth to the fruit. Very approachable now, but the patient will be rewarded.
Yalumba – Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz – The Signature – 2009 (18.5). Ripe fruit, with chocolate, vanilla and spice on the nose. The palate is very textured, possessing depth of fruit, concentration, tremendous length and persistence. The finish is defined by fine, though slightly chewy, tannins. Superb wine that will evolve for years, yet can be drunk now with pleasure.
Forest Hill – Cabernet Sauvignon – Estate – 2011 (18). Concentrated, essence-like fruit on the nose. The palate hints at the same, though the fruit is enveloped in a blanket of fine, silky tannins. Slightly souring plum-like acidity carries a very long finish. This is a style that will work a treat with food now, yet will age for many years. A serious wine that, at $30 is a worthy cellar addition.
Grant Burge – Cabernet Sauvignon – Corryton Park – 2010 (18). Another impressive wine that combines superbly ripe and concentrated fruit with supple oak and tannins. Excellent length to a finish that is fine and lingering. Balanced, elegant and silky, a remarkable cabernet from the Barossa Valley.
Deep Woods – Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz – Ebony – 2011 (17.5). Bright, fresh and vibrant with blackcurrant, licorice, fennel, spice and supple, cedary oak. A surprisingly serious wine that combines quality fruit and oak in a deftly handled package, with excellent length on the finish. Only medium-bodied, this will still handle a few years in the cellar. Why wait though?
Willow Bridge – Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot – Dragonfly – 2012 (17.5). Impressively inky colour in the glass. The nose is redolent of blackcurrant and spice. The fruit is chewy and dense on the palate, and opens up nicely on the finish. A well-made wine that would suit short term cellaring.
Devils Lair – Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz – The Hidden Cave – 2012 (17+). Silky, soft, ripe and very easy to drink. Supple, everyday drinking.