One word - legend. Jack Mann served Houghton for a remarkable 51 consecutive vintages. His determination to create wines of intensity, elegance and regional character have inspired a generation of Australian winemakers to achieve great things. Simply one of this country's greatest Cabernets, this wine is not just single vineyard fruit, the selection process is so rigorous that often it is just a few rows from the Justin Vineyard. Such is the reverence for that great man - Jack Mann.
Bin 707 is a Cabernet Sauvignon reflection of Grange, intensely-flavoured fruit, completion of fermentation and maturation in new oak, expressing a Penfolds understanding of multi-vineyard, multi-region fruit sourcing. Bin 707 was first vintaged in 1964. The wine was not made from 1970 to 1975 when fruit was directed to other wines, nor in 1981, 1995, 2000, 2003 or 2011 (when fruit of the required style and quality was not available). Full bodied and with proven cellaring potential, Bin 707 retains a secure place among the ranks of Australias finest Cabernets.
Lovely floral and spicy complexities, with hints of fruits of the forest, pepper and ginger snap. The palate displays the full range of dark berries, Mediterranean herbs, and savoury pan jus elements. It is tight and compact, intense and deep, firm and taut, with nicely measured grip and tremendous length. A powerhouse of a wine, but also one possessed of great elegance.
A full and fruity Shiraz, Kaesler Old Bastard is fresh on the nose with hints of blackberries, raspberries and blueberries. On the palate, forest fruits, blackberry and mulberry mingle with spices of anise and nutmeg with some coffee and chocolate notes. Tannins are silky and balanced, with a nice acidity. This shiraz will cellar for 20+ years.
Famille Perrin Domaine du Clos des Tourelles Gigondas
Deep and velvety ruby colour. Ripe red fruits, violet, licorice, mineral. Tannins are present but not aggressive. With its specific aromas of violet and licorice, its finesse and elegance, this wine is a 'civilized' version of Gigondas. Famille Perrin owns the famous estate of Chateau de Beaucastel, situated in the Southern Rhone. The region is renowned for Chateauneuf du Pape and Cotes du Rhone wines. Famille Perrin produces three brands, Chateau de Beaucastel, La Vieille Ferme and Famille Perrin.
Famille Perrin Domaine du Clos des Tourelles Gigondas 2020
Essence of blackcurrant. Bay leaves, licorice, tobacco and musky oak. One of those wines that seems to cascade through the mouth. Tremendous purity, freshness, elegance. Great release. Not much need be said. Pure velvet. Pure length. Drink 2019-2032.