O’Leary Walker Polish Hill River Armagh Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
G 92
An attractive, aromatic young Cabernet that combines two almost opposing sub- regions – the rock and mineral intensity of Polish Hill River and the sandy loam and generous, elegant tannins associated with Armagh. Together, they bring red and blue fruits, baking spices and leafy Aussie bush characters to a medium-bodied Cabernet of immediate pleasure. It is drinking well right now, juicy and ripe, with potential for short-term ageing. Drink now–2030 Pauletts Cabernet 2023 G 92 Dense in dark crimson colour and varietal intensity. Aromas are cedary, blackberried and quite alluring with some mint and dried leaves folded through. It’s a ripe, juicy Cabernet showing fleshy fruit, earth, a big pinch of spice and herbs and measured in well-proportioned tannins. Finishes on a sweet, uplifted herbal note. Drink now– 2030 Pikes Homage Cabernet, Malbec 2022 G 92 Two of Clare’s leading, steadfast red grape varieties come together and it’s a meeting of shared values: of structure, earth, fruit and a light savouriness. Malbec brings the down home on the farm feel in earth, plum and sage, while Cabernet sets the firm tannin structure, sending briar, crushed herbs and black fruits into the mix. Medium term drinking enjoyment assured. Drink now–2027 Rieslingfreak No. 3 Riesling 2025 G 92 Sourced from fruit grown across the Clare Valley, and while it is dry, the winemaker has embraced a more rounded and warmer middle palate expression, which will bring with it a broader drinking audience. It definitely has wide appeal with its more traditional approach that sees waxy, lees-derived notes, citrus, green apple bite, musk and gentle spiciness on show. Bright acidity folds nicely into the textural elements of the wine, bringing a chalky dryness to the finish. Drink now–2033 Skillogalee D Block Grenache 2024 G 92 Dry grown old vine Grenache brings an effortless ease to the glass based on a pretty impressive depth of fruit. Gently cloudy crimson hues. Gravelly earth, plum, black cherry, dark raspberry, briar and spice. Nice palate weight; it fairly dances on the palate with a solid core of flavour that is still evolving based on firm tannins. A deceptive wine that runs deep the more you taste. Will age a beaut. Drink now–2031
206
The Vintage Journal
Powered by FlippingBook