A forceful but not over-the-top Cabernet, with the varietal’s tell-tale cassis fruit flavor, secondary notes that echo dark chocolate and sweet vanilla, firm but polished tannins, and a long, evolving finish. The wine shows plenty of warmth, but is neither hot nor heavy on the palate, so exhibits fine balance, albeit in a vibrant Aussie style.
Penolds, South Australia (Australia) Cabernet Sauvignon 2008
By Paul Lukacs