PENFOLDS II x Dourthe Cabernet Shiraz, France, Australia

A formidable wine. Powerfully aromatic, as though an internal combustion engine were pumping the aromas out of the glass, broadcasting the wines freshness, clarity, and purity with a compelling perfume of rose petal-tinged blueberry and the blackest imaginable, impeccably ripened fruit, infused with exotic wood spice. The fruit presents at the perfect point of ripeness, bursting on the palate with pure black cherry, black current and blackberry. The wine is soft, sweet and textural, with elements of rich charry earth, purple lilac and violet, all carried by a perfect measure of powdery tannins. Theres an extra potent dimension of umami giving the wine a lithe, sexy elegance and old-world precision. And its beautiful length and purity resonates remarkably long.

MATTHIASSON Phoenix Vineyard Cabernet, Napa Valley The Phoenix Vineyard was planted back in 1982 on the steep hillside above the winery. They used old heritage field selections of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot. Mattiasson converted to Organic Farming, planting new vines where some of the old vines had given up. The rock content and sea minerals of the soils create unique wines with high-toned red fruits, perfumed and exotic, with a lightness in the mid-palate yet a long, firm, and structured finish. Its singular enough, yet complete enough, to be worthy of a single vineyard designation.

Cabernet sauvignon crafted with a contemporary approach, emphasising regionality and French oak maturation. A powerful, elegant style that is immediately Penfolds, a classic reflection of commitment to the vineyards of Coonawarra. A fine wine to share with friends on a special occassion.