Château Tanunda 50-Year-Old Vines Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

We tend to think of the Barossa Valley as overflowing with ancient, gnarly old vines, but in truth, they are a rare and precious commodity. Cabernet vines in excess of fifty years of age represent just 2% of the plantings in the region. Those that provided the fruit for this wine come from the Bethany sub-region. Maturation was for a period of a year and a half in a mix of new and older French oak barriques. Gleaming dark magenta in colour, the nose revolves around notes of mocha, cassis, licorice, chocolate and mulberries, which are supported by aromas of tobacco leaves and plums. Good concentration and balance throughout and we see notes of black fruits and spices emerging on the palate, along with some savoury touches of mushrooms and coffee grinds. Very good length here, through to satiny tannins, the plushness found in the texture is a highlight. Enjoy over the next ten to fifteen years.