2016 Woodlands Clementine Eloise Cabernet Sauvignon

A blend of 94% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc that was awarded Ray Jordan’s wine of the year. Dense midnight black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Perfumed aromatics of violets, ripe red to dark currants and mulberry blossom from the glass. Lightly dusted vanillin cedar, subtle black olive, dried herb, subtle bay leaf and spice notes follow on. Medium bodied with a smooth palate feel, rich dark to black currant fruit is underpinned by vanillin cedar and lots of dried herb characters with elements of mulberry, light earth, tobacco and spicy bay leaf also present. Excellent concentration and power. Very well integrated velvet like tannins have plenty of structure lurking beneath for the long haul. Concludes very long, polished and refined.
Cellar 8-10 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews….
This picturesque little vineyard planted in 1973 opposite Metricup Road is one of the finest small producers in Australia, with the trio of founder David Watson and sons Stuart and Andrew producing a remarkable range of wines. The wines, especially the cabernets and cabernet blends, are consistently exceptional, reflecting both region and site, worth going to the cellar door to check out some special limited-release wines.
The latest cabernet is a sensational wine. One of the most beautifully elegant of these super-premium top-drawer Woodlands cabernets. This was a vintage known for its hefty tannins, yet the management in the vineyard and winery has harnessed these to be part of an elegant wine of blissful refinement. Perfumed notes of black fruit and violets. The palate is so beautifully woven with effortless power and palate length. The chalky mouthfeel adds further appeal.
99 points
Ray Jordan