The 2018 growing season began with a later then average budburst, and led into excellent conditions for flowering and fruit set, which augured well for an even and good sized crop. Heavy December rain created an array of potential issues, including large dense canopies and resulting disease pressure. The viticultural team worked tirelessly, ensuring canopies were opened up by removing unnecessary shoots, leaves and bunches. We were then blessed with a mild dry January-March which guaranteed this wonderful crop. The resultant fruit was ripe, balanced and the wines are approachable early with good prospects for long term cellaring. All in all, an excellent season!

Cassis, red currants, tobacco leaf with hints of spice and subtle floral perfumes drive the nose of the wine. The palate controlled by fine and talc -like tannins woven into a persistent and pure fruit finish. With tremendous poise and elegance, the 2018 Medhurst Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon will continue to improve with careful cellaring for over a decade.

The most balanced and even 5 rows of the Cabernet Sauvignon block on the property is farmed each year for this classic single site wine. Low crops and careful canopy management ensure powerful varietal flavours and great intensity in a medium bodied frame. All picking decisions are made based on regular tasting and critiquing of the fruit in the lead up to harvest. 1.3t was picked on the 14th March and chilled overnight. The following morning the cool bunches were destemmed into a single open fermenter where the grapes underwent fermentation and remained on skins for 25 days. This extended maceration produced silky tannins, essential for the structure and longevity of the wine. After pressing, the wine was racked to French oak barriques (33% new) for extended elevage (18 months) until bottling onsite in October 2019. Only 32 dozen produced.

Ideal food matches are many, from slow cooked middle eastern lamb shoulder, a classic cassoulet or simply a dry-aged t-bone grilled to perfection with a simple salad.