Reschke Empyrean Cabernet Sauvignon 2014

Almost a decade of development for this superb Coonawarra Cabernet, beloved of American critics (and quite a few local ones, as well). This is harvested from the oldest vines on the Estate, with only certain select rows from the Henry Albert vineyard included, and then spends time in 100% new French oak barriques for two years. The name, we are assured, is the Latin for ‘the highest sphere in which the purist elements of life exist’. Under cork, this is a cracking Coonawarra Cabernet. It might already offer that maturity but it is still fresh and full of energy. Notes of mocha and licorice, there is good concentration but it remains light on its feet. Fine line of acidity, plenty of grip but the tannins are ultra-fine. Excellent length tells this wine still has at least a decade ahead of it.