A little bit about Tahbilk 'Old Vines' Cabernet Shiraz releases ...
The quintessentially Australian blending of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz saw initial releases at Tahbilk from the 1957 and 1958 vintages under Eric Purbrick’s tutelage, believed to be the first such ‘Estate Grown’ blends in Australia.
It was not until 14 years later that Eric’s son John resurrected the blend that saw four vintages released in the 1970s and a further two in the 1980s.
The Estate is blessed with significant older vineyard blocks with, among others, Shiraz dating back to 1860 and 1933, and Cabernet Sauvignon to 1949.
It is selected of these aged vine plantings that are the primary source for the ‘OId Vines’ Cabernet Shiraz when, from the 2010 vintage, the blend returned and is now a permanent fixture of Tahbilk’s premium Reds portfolio. With a contributing average vine age of over 35 years they set a new standard for such releases from the Estate.
Enjoy Now to 2029/2035
Tahbilk’s 2019 vintage reds are noted for their bright fruit characters and deep, rich flavours, no more evident than with this 60/40 blend crafted from the Estate’s older plantings.
Spice, herbal and subtle violet florals sit alongside concentrated dark berry and plum fruits on a plush nose and palate, with well-integrated oak bringing cedar and savoury edges. A wine of true distinction ... mindful cellaring will see added complexity develop out to 2029/2035.”
Don't Take Our Word For It ...
"Machine harvested and hand picked, crushed, destemmed, fermentation in open top fermenters and stainless steel rotary fermenters. The style remains ageless, you might say 'Tahbilk traditional' in its approach.
Super-ripe blackberries offer the base upon which layers of spice, anise, earth, briar, leaf, leather and woodsy oak mingle and meld against a background of warm, cedary oak. Early days for this wine. Give it time."
Jeni Port | www.winecompanion.com.au | August 2023
