American writer, Helen Keller, is quoted as saying, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much”. 

This is true in some ways but not so in others. When it comes to the varieties that go into this blend, Shiraz and Cabernet, they do pretty well on their own in the wine circles of, not just Australia, but the world.  However, on this occasion, I have to concur with Ms Keller when it comes to the second part of the quote. Having brought these two varieties together, Huntington Estate winemaker Tim Stevens continues to show his prowess when it comes to this classic Aussie blend that they “together…can do so much”.

Region: Mudgee, NSW     Price: $100     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Huntington Estate

A lovely nice looking wine in the glass, so deeply coloured at its core and youthfully purple around the edges. The predominately dark fruit aromas are enough to have your mouth watering in anticipation of what is to come. Paradoxically, the rich and concentrated array of dark fruits provided a full-bodied feel to this wine yet there is a finesse and elegance across the palate at the same time. Dried herbs, dark chocolate, a deft touch of oak and tannins make a contribution, but it’s the terrific lush fruit doing all the talking at this early stage of its life.

This is destined to be a classic in the Huntington Estate line-up of wines. An absolute ripper of a wine that is drinking beautifully now (with a bit of time in the glass) but is a keeper for as long as your patience can hold out.