I read somewhere that McLaren Vale is not so well known for its Cabernet Sauvignon. I have to admit, I can’t remember where I read it, but Shiraz and Grenache were the main red varieties given the most focus in the article. I’m not, never have been and never will be, one to compartmentalise wine regions for what they are best known for. I’m sure those who grow the grapes and produce the wine from said grapes know what they are doing. I know that what they put in the bottle will be the best they can produce regardless of the variety.
As they left the bottle, destined for the glass receptacle, the unmistakable Cabernet Sauvignon aromas filled the air around me and beyond. They were quite complex and full on too. Blackberries aplenty, earthy, and I thought a bit dusty on the nose, there’s a licorice like aroma and a slight herbal influence as well. I said it was a bit complex but that makes it all the more interesting don’t you think?
There is plenty to like when tasting it too. The flavours just flood every crevice of your mouth. Rich, dense and concentrated dark fruit flavours are complimented perfectly with a dash of spice. The oak and abundant tannins at the finish are both in balance with the aforementioned bold fruit flavours. Its cellaring potential was evident too because, the longer it sat in the glass, the more it seemed to open up and reveal even more of its good qualities.
Yet another excellent value wine from the crew at Hastwell & Lightfoot.
Region: Mclaren Vale, SA Price: $25 Source: Sample thanks to Hastwell & Lightfoot and Define Wine
Words from a Wine Glass 