Made from Cabernet grapes sourced from the Schrapel family vineyards and neighbouring vineyards on the Barossa foothills. It's a modern style with a round, soft mouthfeel.
Traditionally fermented and aged for one year in French oak casks the colour is deep red, purple and displays aromas of ripe, rich plums and a hint of cassis.
It's recommended alongside roasted red meat dishes, and will hold its own as companion to some full flavoured fromage.
From the Winery
The Cabernet Sauvignon fruit was sourced from the Schrapel family vineyards and neighbouring vineyards in the Barossa foothills. Traditional viticulture practices were applied with the yield from old vines 6.25t/Ha. The vineyards were hand pruned to 70 buds per vine to limit yields.
Fermented on skins in the traditional manner for 6 - 8 days at 20 - 25 degrees with juice being racked from the skins and returned for optimal colour and fine tannin extraction. Fermentation was initiated prior to racking into American and French oak barrels for two years to allow fruit and palate structure to develop. This method of winemaking results in a modern style of Cabernet with enough oak to give complexity without overshadowing the wine.
The Barossa Valley confronted one of the earliest, smallest and quickest vintages in 2013, but quality is outstanding. Rainfall in 2012 was the fifth driest on record, leading to early irrigation scheduling to give the vines the best possible start to the season. The white varieties ripened slowly and steadily in moderate conditions. A great year for Semillon. Lower yields but excellent quality.
Don't Pay: $29.00
WBW Rating: 91/100
Closure: Stelvin
Region: Barossa Valley, SA
Winemaker: Geoff & Robert Schrapel
Drink now until: 2018
Alc/Vol: 14.8 %