HUTTON VALE 2018 CABERNET

 “Hardly anyone was planting Cabernet in the Barossa when the Angas family were expanding their vineyards in the 1960s, so it’s no surprise ittook until the late 1990s for the variety to find its way onto Hutton ValeFarm. Whilst it may have been a late starter, the quality of the fruit grownthere suggests it has a long future in this part of the world. The Cabernet block was planted in 1998 on a sloping seven and a half acresite, where the lean and tough environment dictates low yields – evenbyHutton Vale Farm standards…frequently less than a tonne to the acre.”Winemaker – Kym Teusner Vintage / Variety: 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Region: Eden Valley Vineyard: Single Vineyard, Hutton Vale Farm Tech Analysis: Alc vol.: 14.7% pH: 3.53 Vintage Conditions: The 2019 vintage delivered below-average yields, however the quality wasvery high, with beautiful expressions of varietal character and generallygood balance and structure. The growing and ripening periods were drywith above average temperatures which led to an early onset of vintage. The later-ripening varieties, riesling and cabernet were standouts. Thelater-ripening varieties, Riesling and cabernet were standouts, howevermost varieties were of a very high standard, including shiraz despite miniscule yields. Winemaking: After hand-picking, the grapes were destemmed prior to fermentationinto open top vessels and carefully managed through twice daily pumpovers for 10 days. After pressing, the wines were allowed to mature inamix of new (11%) and seasoned French oak barriques prior to blending. Further time in bottle has allowed the wine to develop greater depth andcomplexity that will only continue as time goes on. Cellaring: The 2019 vintage is a classic Hutton Vale Cabernet that will reward carefulcellaring over the next 15+ years Awards: “Dried sage and thyme shimmer alongside dried mint and some dark chocolate. Generous, it coats the mouth effortlessly. Moreish, some coffeegrounds rise up late with cedary oak showing its hand with a respectful nod. The weight, the length, the feel - brilliant.” 95 Points - QWine Reviews