Passel Estate Lot 71 Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
- 94
- $90
- Drink by: 2026-2030
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As I’m (drinking) writing this, in January 2026, the 2018 Passel Estate Lot 71 Cabernet Sauvignon has stepped out of its adolescent era and is starting to show some sexy smile lines. Rum raisin, plum compote and toasted bay leaves. It’s right in that small window where Cabernet truly shines. It’s been around the block, but has not yet lost its youthful optimism – and primary fruit characters. In the mouth, the structure is firm, and pleasantly all encompassing – an indication of the fantastic 2018 vintage in Margaret River. The tannins are ripe, integrated and abundant. There’s density in all directions, and much like the opening notes, the finish is savoury and shows its age. I’d suggest a rib eye to go alongside it.
A hopeless romantic for wine and food, Cyndal is nearing 15 years in hospitality while still (just) under 30. A Chef-turned-Sommelier and award-winning wine professional, Cyndal recently left a Group Sommelier role where she curated seven wine lists across multiple venues and led the wine team to Gourmet Traveller Wine Bar of the Year—just months after opening. Now freelance, Cyndal is a wine consultant, event host, wine judge, and wine writer. Passionate about sharing wine’s story with the world, she brings a fresh voice and creative solutions to the industry. After studying and traveling through most of her 20s, she’s now based in WA’s southwest, proudly embracing her role as a WA coastal cowgirl.
