Wynn’s Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Gotta love a wine that unfolds slowly over time, what you first sniff and taste is subtly different to what you sniff and taste an hour, half a day, a day, later. My notes for John Riddoch came in two acts, two tastings over two days. I am sure there could be a lot more acts, indeed, a full play waiting to be discovered in this outstanding example of Coonawarra Cabernet. There’s no shying away from what it is, there is a noteworthy herbal presence throughout and rich layers of black fruits and berries, vanilla and gentle spice. The rising, aromatic florals, led by violet, lift the wine, the earthy, chocolate and spice notes ring in behind. Fruit, oak and tannin are beautifully in sync, probably the best for some time. Ripe, supple but firm tannins bring extra focus, and there’s plenty in the tank for the future. Beautifully in balance.