Dandelion Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Sale $19.99

Buy 3+ and pay just $17.99

93 pts James Halliday (Australia's Most Esteemed Critic)

We’re heading to the big Down Under for this classic Cabernet. I know, it isn’t exactly where we first think of for Cabernet, but, in reality, Australia produces quite a lot of it. The trick is getting out of the Barossa Valley and looking for more suitable climes… in this case, the Fleurieu Peninsula. Overlooking the Finniss River wetlands, the Stranger’s Reach vineyard is cooled by the Great Southern Ocean and Lake Alexandrina. Rainfall is quite low, and the vineyards are dry-farmed, so the roots dig deep into the alluvial soils to find water and nutrients.

With 50 year-old vines and low yields, the wife and husband team of Elena Brooks and Zar (yes, just one name), are able to produce a classic Cabernet that rivals those of California that sell for twice the price (or more). The nose is scented blueberries, cassis and anise aromas with baking spice, cedar and blackberry notes. Rich, deep, full-flavored, blueberry, black plums, figs and milk chocolate flavors. Tobacco, spearmint and soft powdery Cabernet tannins softened by smooth, mouth-filling fruit before a really extended finish.

“I have great affection for cabernet from the Fleurieu, with its bold flavours and inimitable maritime salinity, the latter marking the tannins while placing the wines. Here we have a cornucopia of blackcurrant, menthol, pastille, iodine, violet, olive spread and sage. The tannins, firm, salty and crusted with herb. The barriques, seamlessly integrated and part of the mould. A moreish, powerful and delicious wine." JH


Or reply. The wine will be available Friday, as ordered, in both stores.