1996 Rymill Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
Red wine prices are escalating at a rate that defys both logic and financial fundamentals. It has truly become a system of laissez faire- market forces at work, full bore! The warning to winemakers is to back off, or you'll find red wine drinkers turning to vegetables as a source of their phenolic compounds. (Phenolics are found in the skins, pips and stalks of red grapes - particularly reds and are extracted by the extended skin contact during fermentation. International health research has indicated that the phenolics in three glasses of wine every day are beneficial for a wide variety of cardiovascular conditions).Consider the prices being charged for neighbouring vineyard wines. Katnook Estate $45 per bottle, Parker Terra Rossa First Growth $60, Wynns Michael and John Riddoch at $70. All big dollars. Fortunately, we've also had some real bargains - Zema Estate, Wetherall and Peppertree, but it won't be long before these producers realise that wines from the Terra Rossa can command a lot more!
WITHOUT DOUBT THE THREE CURRENT RELEASES OF RYMILL COONAWARRA REDS OFFER EXTRAORDINARY QUALITY AND VALUE FOR MONEY AND BY CURRENT MARKET STANDARDS ARE GROSSLY UNDERVALUED.
The other aspect worthy of consideration is the cellaring potential. Rymill reds are certainly capable of that, and more importantly not only do the wines hold up for an extended period - they actually improve dramatically. Vintaged from a great year - our unreserved advice is to stock up with as much as you can afford. No chance of any disappointments.
Tasting Notes: The Shiraz was excellent - the Cabernet Sauvignon is exceptional. It is now generally acknowledged that Coonawarra is all about Cabernet Sauvignon. Opaque crimson colour. A very sophisticated nose with outstanding aromas of violets, blackcurrant and spice. This is a wine with 'breed' as the English Masters of Wine would say. The palate displays excellent depth of flavour, with excellent oak integration. Blackcurrant fruit flavours are enhanced by spice, cedar, a touch of confectionary and a very subtle but discernible earthy truffle finish. Long persistent palate and aftertaste, with fine grained tannins and perfect balance. Exceptional value for money and a must for the serious collector. Cellar 8-12 years.