2010 Balnaves of Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon

The Balnaves Coonawarra Vineyard was established in 1975, and is situated at the southern end of the Coonawarra Terra Rossa strip. Blended from the Balnaves Walker, Quarry and Avery vineyards, the wine spent 19 months in tight-grain French oak from St Martin, Saury, Taransaud and Sylvain cooperages.

Outstanding colour saturation – impenetrable inky black dark red colour with very deep dark red black hue. The nose exhibits an expressive bouquet of blackcurrant infused with spearmint as top notes followed by a touch of underlying dark chocolate and spice. Rich and densely flavoured with a good structured mouthfeel the palate is swamped with ripe blackcurrant and choc mint which overlay some cedar and spice. Superb power and persistence with fine grained, slightly chewy tannins providing ample support. Very long ripe blackcurrant, dark choc mint and cedar aftertaste.
Cellar 5-8 years (2018-2021)
Alc 14.5% Other Reviews….
A heavily stained ProCork is a worry. The strong purple-crimson colour signals no problems yet, the rich bouquet and medium- to full-bodied palate bursting with intense, perfectly ripened blackcurrant fruit; despite 19 months in quality French oak, it is this fruit, and the well-weighted tannins, which are the primary drivers. Drink by 2025.
95 points
James Halliday – Australian Wine Companion