The quintessentially Australian blending of Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz saw initial releases at Tahbilk from the 1957 and 1958 vintages under Eric Purbrick’s tutelage, believed to be the first such ‘Estate Grown’ blends in Australia. It was not until 14 years later that Eric’s son John resurrected the blend that saw four vintages released in the 1970s and a further two in the 1980s.
The Estate is blessed with significant older vineyard blocks with, among others, Shiraz dating back to 1860 and 1933, and Cabernet Sauvignon to 1949.
It is selected of these aged vine plantings that are the primary source for the ‘OId Vines’ Cabernet Shiraz when, from the 2010 vintage, the blend returned and is now a permanent fixture of Tahbilk’s premium Reds portfolio. With a contributing average vine age of over 35 years they set a new standard for such releases from the Estate.
Enjoy Now to 2030/2032
Characteristic of its aged vine sourcing, this 2018 blend of 51% Cabernet Sauvignon and 49% Shiraz is deeply packed with layers of dark and red berry fruits that are teased out with eucalypt, Chinese five spice, earth and dark chocolate notes. Herbal and cedar hints from time spent in American and French oak taking that complexity further, with savoury tannins on the finish giving structure to a future holding great promise out to 2030/2032.
“A classic in many ways, not the least of which is the commitment to a distinctive Tahbilk style that is beyond trends. Baked earth, wood smoke, Aussie bush mint and dark plums. It combines a generous body of sustained flavour with toasty oak and ripe tannins, making for a harmonious whole.”
Jeni Port | www.winecompanion.com.au
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