2013 Balnaves of Coonawarra The Tally Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Matured for 20 months in 79% new French oak. Dense inky black core with a very deep dark red black hue. Sailing out of the glass are potent scents of ripe blackcurrants, liquorice and blackberry trailed by spicy vanillin cedar, tobacco, earth and subtle choc mint notes. Rich, powerful and structured, lashings of opulent blackcurrant fruit flood the mouth with liquorice, choc mint, lightly toasted vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and spicy bay leaf elements also chiming in. Dryish finish with firm, sturdily built tannins lending some grip to the long generous yet muscular aftertaste.
Cellar 5-6 years.
Alc. 14.5%

Other Reviews….
Hand-picked from a single vineyard; 40% long maceration on skins, matured for 20 months in new deluxe French chateau barriques (60% new). Deeply coloured, it is the quintessence of Coonawarra cabernet, with an immensely long palate, fruit, oak and tannins all contributing. Sometimes the oak on The Tally can seem too obvious in blind tastings with other top-flight cabernets, but it's hard to see that happening here. The drink-to date has been shortened by the decision to use ProCork. Drink by 2043.
97 points
James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion