The word ‘courage’ gets used these days mostly to describe somebody’s actions in a positive way where they have shown “the mental or moral strength to venture, persevere, and withstand danger, fear, or difficulty.” (Merriam-Webster) but the original meaning was, “to speak one’s mind by telling all one’s heart.” 

The basis for the word ‘courage’ comes from ‘cor’, the latin word for ‘heart’.  Upon reading this, I couldn’t help but think that winemaker, Sam Brand, has shown courage by releasing a luxurious Coonawarra Cabernet at a high end price.  I also feel, after tasting this wine he has put his ‘cor’, his whole heart, into the crafting of this wine from the vineyard to the bottle. 

An intensely concentrated wine with immense appeal to three of the five senses.  Sight, smell and taste.  And during the exploration of this captivating wine, I couldn’t help but use these three senses over and over again, and in a different order each time.  A deep, dark, ‘primary’ purple colour in the glass that seems to expel the dark fruit aromas into the atmosphere for all to experience. The palate is a complex array of generous flavours that stimulate the taste receptors. Black fruits, dried herbs, a hint of mint, smooth quality dark chocolate, lovely integrated oak, smooth tannins and terrific length.

As much as this wine is named after the constellation, Draco, I can’t help but think ‘Cor Meum’ (‘My Heart’) would also have been appropriate as a testament to Sam’s dedication and commitment to showcasing the heart of Coonawarra and the quality of its Cabernet Sauvignon to the wine loving world.

Website: nightfallwines.com.au

Region: Coonawarra, SA     Price: $250     Source: Thanks kindly to Sam Brand and Nightfall Wines