Wynns Black Label Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon, South Australia, 2018  

100% Cabernet Sauvignon with 15 months in a combination of new and used French oak (34% new). 

On the nose wild berries, black olive and rhubarb notes with fragrant nutmeg and cedary oak, underpinned by delicate notes of sage and violet florals. On the palate dark cassis stretches the length of the palate. Fine, powdery tannins and succulent acidity support rich fruit with exceptional poise. Outstanding cellaring potential for this vintage. 

First produced in 1954 and widely known as ‘Black Label’, Wynns Coonawarra Estate Cabernet Sauvignon has established a reputation for displaying excellent varietal and regional characteristics. The wine is produced from only the top quality 20 to 25 percent of Cabernet Sauvignon fruit available from Wynns Coonawarra Estate. 

“One sip, you're in. Another seductive Black Label - its 63rd vintage - and it's a wow. Excellent vintage conditions have no doubt helped, but this Australian icon doesn't need a lot of assistance outside its trio of long-time 'curators': Sue Hodder, Allen Jenkins and Sarah Pidgeon. Masses of blackberry fruits, a touch of black olive savouriness, stewed rhubarb, violets. Casts a wide net across the palate with sustained black fruits and spice, but also notes of coffee grounds, bay leaf and vanilla. Oak enhances, yet keeps itself in the background.” Jeni Port, Halliday Wine Companion 96/100 

"Medium deep crimson. Classical cassis cedar aromas with roasted hazelnut, herb-garden, espresso coffee notes. Supple, elegant and minerally with gentle pure blackcurrant fruits, underlying cedar, dried herbs, vanilla roasted chestnut oak, superb mid-palate inkiness and vigorous fine grainy tannins. In some ways understated and sotto voce but lovely clarity and composure. A very age-worthy style yet with immediate appeal 13.7% alc – Now – 2032" Andrew Caillard MW 96/100