Yalumba The Cigar Cabernet Sauvignon 2018

Is The Cigar going to be a new Coonawarra benchmark which in time challenges Wynns Black Label – only time will tell. It’s made from newish platings on the famous Menzies Estate Vineyard which were planted between 2009 and 2014. There is also 10% Malbec thrown in at the moment to add some mid-palate flesh and richness, which does not hurt at all for young vine cabernet. It’s well-made and beautifully pitched with perfumed red and black currant fruits, some plummy/inky fleshy notes helping to fill it out with attractive leafy/cedary complexity adding additional depth. There is then a harmonious mix of fruit and structure on the palate which provides not only excellent drinking now but also over the medium term.