2017 Zema Estate Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon

One of Coonawarra’s long standing Estate’s, the Zema family having been crafting wines from their vineyards for nearly 40 years. The family arrived from Italy in 1953 bringing with them a wealth of traditional vineyard practices and experience. In 1982 they purchased their first 20 acre property, located in the heart of the famed terra rossa strip adjacent to Coonawarra landmarks Mildara, Rouge Homme and Wynns. Eight acres were already planted to Shiraz, the remaining 12 acres were subsequently planted to Cabernet Sauvignon. Matured in French oak for 18 months. Pitch black heart with a deep dark red black hue. Unfurling from the glass are intense ripe blackcurrant scents infused with spearmint followed by vanillin cedar, light earth and tobacco notes. Rich blackcurrant fruits carry a plush feel and are complimented by mulberry, mint, spicy vanillin cedar and subtle earthy tobacco elements. Finely rendered tannins lead into a long polished aftertaste.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews….
Machine-picked, tank ferment, cultured yeast, maturation in French oak (20% new) for 18 months. Has the Coonawarra signature written all over it from the unforced balance, medium-bodied stance and blackberry concentration to the bright flourish of bay leaf, sage and menthol. Savoury tannins and oak work a treat in creating extra layers of interest. It can only get better from here. Drink by 2038.
95 Points
Jeni Port – James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion