This Cabernet Merlot exhibits ripe cassis, dark chocolate and licorice aromas. High notes of cedary oak and bay leaf add further complexity. The palate unfolds in a myriad of layers of ripe blackcurrant and red fruit interwoven with savoury oak. The long and flavoursome finish is well supported by dry and fine grained tannins.

This medium bodied and elegant wine is a blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon enhanced with a small percentage of classic varietals. Following fermentation and extended maceration, the wine has been matured in new and old French oak barriques, producing a complex blend of Margaret River fruit characters including cassis, eucalypt, capsicum, mulberry and plum with secondary notes of chocolate and cedar. 93/100 James Halliday Wine Companion 2016.

The Raconteur is sourced from Carl Linder's 80 year old Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard located in the Barossa Valley; these old vines are hand harvested and made using traditional techniques by Vinaceous contract winemaker Elena Brooks (Dandelion Vineyards). The wine is matured in oak and selected by Vinaceous Winemakers Mike Kerrigan and Nick Stacy and sent to West Cape Howe Wine (WA) for finishing, fining, blending and bottling by Vinaceous. The Raconteur 'breaks the mold' for Barossa Cabernet; lush, rich and deep purple in colour with bright hues, the aroma leaps from the glass with violets and black berry and mocha notes. Ripe fleshy black currants and cassis complement the overall palate with intensity, weight, structure and texture. Along with lip-smacking tannins and fine oak nuances, the Raconteur can easily be enjoyed on immediate opening or be cellared in the short term.

Blue-black fruits and dried herb. Long fine tannins.

He said “Enticing aromas of mulberry, spice and licorice with hints of violet.”She said“A sumptuous palate of ripe red and dark fruits with a mid-palate of plum, black pepper, and aniseedleading toa long toasty coffee bean finish.” Both said “Enjoy now or cellar for up to five years.”