Elderton Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa '19

Elderton Wines is a small, family-owned winery in Australia’s Barossa Valley. The Elderton vineyards were first planted in 1894 by early German settlers, and in 1979 the Ashmead family purchased the property and set out to restore the treasured vineyards. Elderton shot to world acclaim after producing some of Australia’s most highly regarded Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Today, Elderton is celebrated as a major force behind the rejuvenation of the Barossa region. The winery is currently helmed by the second generation of the Elderton family, brothers Cameron and Allister, with Cameron’s wife, Jules, heading the winemaking team.

This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is made solely from estate fruit, from old vines in Greenock, low yielding vines in Nuriootpa, and higher elevation vines in Craneford. Each of Elderton’s estate vineyards ripen differently owing to their varying aspects, elevations, and soil types. The wine is fermented in open-top concrete and spends 24 months in older French oak hogsheads and puncheons.

The nose opens with classic Cabernet aromas of cassis, dark brambly fruit, licorice, and dried herbs, with a touch of green bell pepper, which carry over to the palate, along with dark chocolate and notes of spice from the oak. The wine is full bodied and dry, with supple tannins and balanced acidity leading to a long, vibrant finish.