Pikes Homage Cabernet Malbec 2023

The blend here is 70% Cabernet Sauvignon and 30% Malbec, from two small blocks in the Clare Valley which were planted in 2008, adjacent to each other in the Polish Hill River sub-region. Maturation was for a year in older oak, the colour is a bruised plum/maroon. An intriguing nose with earthy notes, blackberries, kirsch, bay leaves and a hint of that smell one gets from a concrete pavement after rain. Good oak integration, well advanced. There is a fine line of acidity in this medium length wine, which finishes with fine yet firm, powdery tannins. Everything is coming together nicely. Drink this over the next six  to eight years.