2018 De Bortoli Melba Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

A generous dark fruited Yarra Valley Cabernet.

The De Bortoli ‘Melba Vineyard’ at Dixons Creek has a rich history of exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon dating back to the 1970’s. The 'Melba' brand pays tribute to renowned operatic soprano diva, Dame Nellie.
Deep black dark red core with a dark red hue. Elevated aromas of blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry are interwoven with dusty vanillin cedar, tobacco, leather and subtle earthy dark chocolate notes. Flooding the mouth are rich blackcurrant, liquorice and dark chocolate fruits with notions of vanillin cedar, earth, subtle leather and spice unfolding across the back half. Grainy, slightly dusty tannins with a long well fleshed and generous dark fruited finish.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews…….
Made only in the best vintages, hand-picked fruit from old vines, destemmed. Fermented on skins for 20 days in 5t vats then gently pressed to a new and used French oak hogshead for 18 months with regular racking. The end result is a beautifully crafted and composed wine. All the beauty of cabernet within, alongside superfine tannins. Elegance with latent power. Drink by 2038.
97 Points
Jane Faulkner - James Halliday’s Australian Wine Companion

The nose is lifted and focused with pure fruit notes of blackcurrants, cedar, dried rose petals and cigar box. The medium- to full-bodied palate has finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, showing elements of mulberry bush, tobacco leaves and herbes de Provence. Very balanced and giving with a drying finish. Drinkable now but best from 2028.
95 Points
JamesSuckling.com