2016 The Smithy Shiraz Cabernet

A Classic bit of Aussie individuality that works. What better way to celebrate the heritage of our old 1850’s cottage?

This blend has been in the engine room for Aussie red wines since the 1950’s and it has stood the test of time. I selected the best wines available in barrel in 2010 to make my 60^th Birthday Red (Bin 60!) and it happened to be Shiraz –Cabernet from 2008…Everyone was so impressed, including my workmates at Penfolds, that given some excellent Eden Valley Old Vine Shiraz this year and some good McLaren Vale Cabernet from a close friend…here it is!

Opaque purple hue.  Lifted leafy Cabernet fruit characters on the nose with interesting notes of cassis and plums.  The palate is very rich and firm but very well structured . Harmonious  tight acidity is balanced with volume of fruit in the middle and firm dry astringency at the end . The wine has hallmarks of treatment with good French oak and maturation to produce a  supple wine with good ageing potential. The finish is long and generous, leaving spicy dark chocolate flavours lingering on the palate.

Origin of Fruit: Barossa Shiraz 55%, Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon 45%

Maturation: Open fermentation with daily plunging or rack & return. Maturation was 20 months in 60% French oak barrels, 40% American oak

2012 Vintage

2014 International Wine Challenge
Bronze Medal