Mount Benson Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Our 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon comes from our preferred Block 5 with a few rows of Block 4. The yields in the vineyard were impacted following much higher than usual temperatures during January which reduced them by 70%. High natural acid was a feature of this vintage which typically provides longevity and cellaring potential. The grapes were picked quite ripe this vintage to enhance the rich plum and all spice flavours of the grape. A soft crush leaving mainly whole berries, destemming and co-fermentation (Malolactic fermentation initiated after 3 days), left on skins for close to 5 weeks, before gentle pressing, tank settling and racking / decanting to French Oak Barrels (~ 50 % new). Barrel tasting in November 19, June and October 2020, witnessed the gradual progression of the development of this wine over the 18 months in barrel. Our 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon exhibits balanced but grippy tannins, with flavours of choc malt, savoury licourice, cherry, mulberry preserve and red currant. It has bright acid and plenty of spice. This wine is a fabulous match with red meats, game, dark chocolate, berry desserts, and blue cheese. Enjoy today or carefully cellar for 10 years or more.