2019 Leeuwin Estate Prelude Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

Leeuwin Estate is one of Margaret River’s and Australia’s great Estates. Their prelude range focuses on the region's benchmark varietals which are made in a more accessible form than the Art Series range whilst still retaining strong varietal character. A blend of 98% Cabernet Sauvignon and 2% Malbec matured in French oak (33% new) for a period of 18 months.
Midnight black heart with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Trademark red to black currant and mulberry scents infused with bay leaf sail out of the glass pursued by cedary tobacco, black olive and spice notes. Medium bodied and refined the palate delivers generous ripe red to black currant and mulberry fruits over a back drop of cedary tobacco characters, earthy black olives and infusions of bay leaf. Nicely integrated fine grained tannin structure with a long elegant conclusion.
Drink over the next 6-8 years.
Alc. 13.5%

Other Reviews....
With 2% malbec. Matured for 20 months in French oak (33.3% new). Cabernet and malbec are meant to be together. This is vibrant and intense, layered with cassis and pomegranate, licorice, clove, graphite and nori. The layers are sewn together with threads of saline acidity that create structure within the shape provided by the oak. All things in place here – yet another compelling Prelude release from the team at Leeuwin. Unbelievable value for money. Drink by 2036.
95 points
Erin Larkin - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion