Hewitson The Dorrien Bank Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

In 2019, boundaries were realigned in the sub-region of Dorrien in the Barossa Valley, resulting in three hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon, planted back in 1996, ending up with the Hewitson team. The next three years saw considerable work to bring the vines up to scratch and we have the first release from the excellent 2022 vintage. The team used 10% whole bunches in the fermentation and maturation was for eighteen months in a mix of new and older French oak barriques. Under cork. Opaque black/maroon, the nose exhibits notes of tobacco leaves, chocolate, blackberries, warm earth and cassis. There is very good oak integration here with a supple texture, leading to fine powdery tannins. Good balance and impressive length. This should drink very well over the next six to ten years.