2023 Mr Riggs Outpost Coonawarra Cabernet

Ben Riggs sourced the fruit for this excellent Cabernet Sauvignon from one of Coonawarra’s top growers - Michael Wetherall’s, Wetherall Estate. From two premium vineyards on the estate that are a combination of terra rossa and sandy loam soils, the sites are located at the northern end of the region and are traditionally some of the earlier ripening blocks that deliver lower yields but excellent concentration. Picked on different days and from different blocks to allow for optimum ripening and multiple blending options, parcels of fruit for this Cabernet were separately fermented in 5 tonne open fermenters. On skin fermentation was completed before pressings were sent to barrel to complete fermentation in a 30% new French and 5% American oak combination.

A beautifully balanced Coonawarra Cabernet that’s deeply concentrated and amply fleshed yet wonderfully refined.

Dense midnight black core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Sailing out of the glass with plenty of intensity are enticing blackcurrant, mulberry and choc mint aromas which intermingle with vanillin cedar, tobacco and spicy dried herb notes. Rich blackcurrant, liquorice and mulberry fruits caress the mid weighted palate with ample flesh and concentration. Lending further interest are notions of spicy vanillin cedar, earthy tobacco and infusions of bay leaf. Beautifully balanced and structured it has fine grained tannins and a finish that’s long and deep yet refined.
Drink over the next 5-6 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews....
A classic regional statement here, again sourcing the variety from outside Riggs’s home base – and unsurprisingly Coonawarra, showcasing its best-known features. Starts with a fragrant crush of black berries, bay leaf and mint providing their herbal aromatics, before easing into the palate with a certain grace and elegance, juicy, superfine tannin feels with just a delicate grab to finish, oak supportive and balanced – impressive given a decent amount is new French. Winner winner lamb shank dinner.
94 Points
Tony Love – WinePilot.com