Summer in the Barossa was warm, but with no extremes of temperature and there was useful, well–spaced rainfall. The weather during vintage was ideal, with no significant disease, and grapes were harvested in good condition. Crops were a little larger than average and some were picked somewhat later than usual.

The Cabernet sauvignon (100%) grapes for this wine came from a single vineyard of 20–25 year old vines lying 400m above the Barossa floor near Angaston. This higher altitude—and cooler position – gives the wine a more obviously varietal aroma than the typical Cabernet from the Barossa floor. It was matured in two and three year–old American oak hogsheads.

While the Barossa is more famed for Shiraz, this wine shows that, on the right site, Cabernet sauvignon also performs well. It is fully ready to drink, but will continue to build cigar–box complexity until at least 2011.

Colour
Deep red with a little garnet on the edge from development.

Nose
Blackberries and dark plums with hints of tar and vanilla from small oak. Cedar and earthy notes are beginning to appear with age.

Structure / Palate
Full bodied, with good depth of ripe flavour. Generous, with dark fruits and a touch of chocolate. Plenty of soft tannin and excellent balance.