2016 Majella Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon

A success story of long term agricultural diversification, the Majella property was originally owned by Frank Lynn, and bought in 1960 by his nephew, George, for a prime lamb enterprise. Viticulture was not on the agenda until 1968, when George, encouraged by his friend, Eric Brand (of Brand's Laira fame) decided it would complement the sheep. Eric purchased the fruit for Hardy's, but the deal later fell through and for a couple of vintages tonnes of premium grapes were left to rot. The risk ultimately paid off. Majella have since had a long term contract supplying Wynns and today, plantings have continued to expand (150 acres now under vine), with Cabernet the flagship varietal. First produced in 1994, Majella Cabernet Sauvignon has quickly established a reputation as one of Coonawarra’s best.

A perfect equilibrium of richness, power and finesse, this is one of Coonawarra’s finest and most consistent Cabernets.

Aged for 18 months in a combination of new and second use French oak hogsheads. Very impressive in its depth of colour displaying a saturated pitch black core with an equally deep dark red black hue. Pronounced aromas of ripe red to black currant and mulberry laced with bay leaf are trailed by vanillin cedar, black olive and spice notes. Medium to full bodied with terrific, richness, power and balance the palate is flooded with perfectly ripened red and black currant fruit overlaying a back drop of mulberry, infusions of bay leaf, vanillin cedar, subtle black olive and spice. Seamlessly integrated tannins provide great structure. Outstanding length with a long savoury red to black currant, subtle mulberry, vanillin cedar, light tobacco, black olive and spicy bay leaf aftertaste.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14.5%