Singlefile Philip Adrian Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Well, this is a spectacular opening. Plush and pillowy on the nose, there’s no shortage of intensity. Cedar, crushed aniseed, dried violets, black fruits, dusty redcurrants, and some tightly knitted black tea spice. There’s slatey tension, and of course plenty of tar and inky liquorice lacquer. The fruit can hold it though, and expresses itself clearly through the well charred Burgundian oak. The real star is the structure. Acidity sparkles like midsummer sun on the water, and keeps a degree of freshness in a rather weighty wine. Tannins are plentiful, with a firm core yet a velvety impression on the palate. Supple and juicy, finishing with bay leaf and dried herb savoury tones. It’s a fantastic wine with such supple and expressive fruit from mature vines, it would be interesting to see it shine its light through a little less oak. Drink now to 2045 and beyond. Decant if drinking young, this needs and deserves time.