1997 Chateau Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon

Chateau Xanadu is one of Margaret Rivers success stories, producing a consistent level of high quality wines. The 1997 vintage in Margaret River was a difficult one with high winds, extreme heat and unseasonal rainfall complicating harvest schedules. Fortunately April brought fine warm weather which allowed Cabernet Sauvignon to ripen to its optimum. Yields were down significantly, however, fruit concentration and tannin balance were enhanced as a result. Deep crimson colour. The nose displays dusty Cabernet aromas, followed by earth, leather, mint and blackcurrant. The palate is superbly structured, refined one might say, with a balanced tannic back bone. Excellent depth of palate flavours. Persistent, with earth, mint, blackcurrant and spice, followed by a peppery finish. Fine grained tannins, beautifully balanced, with persistent mint, leather, earth and liquorice aftertaste. Cellar 5-8 years.