Riddoch

Federator Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

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  Vintage 2022
  95 points Jeni Port - Wine Pilot

As well-structured and compelling as Cabernet Sauvignon off Coonawarra terra rossa soils can be. And there’s a sweet surprise in store, too, with a small parcel of co-fermented Cabernet, Merlot and Cabernet Franc included, bringing a subtle lift of aromatics. This is a Coonawarra Cabernet that lets the fruit sing with a lovely intensity of aromas in black fruits, cassis, forest berries, toasted spices, blackstrap liquorice, Aussie bush and wild mint with cedar. It doesn’t live large or loud, rather it speaks of the land, the soil and the kind of natural balance that terra rossa can bring combined with a multi-layered palate. It’s a strong, insistent flavour, medium-bodied, nicely concentrated, enlivened by spices and crushed herbs led by rosemary, earth, tobacco leaf and vanilla. Tannins are firm, a touch savoury and well pronounced. A wonderful wine and yet another Coonawarra premium wine dedicated to the region’s famous founder, John Riddoch. Jeni Port - Wine Pilot

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  Vintage 2022
  95 points

Here's a terrific example of Coonawarra cabernet in a good season, drawn from those famed terra rossa soils in the heart of the region. Colour is deep, ready crimson and then the aromas kick in with their spicy blackberry dark plummy nuances. The palate, which is generous and typically powerful, is refined with a delightful purity. Certainly, the red fruits emerge with blackberry, a little blackcurrant, and a touch of cedary character. The oak is a mix of new and old French, and it had 15 months to settle and mature before a further 24 months in the bottle. This is an immensely powerful wine, structured with all the character and style to handle some extended cellaring.