Secret Cabernet Sauvignon Mixed Dozen

Padthaway & Barossa Valley Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2016 (6 bottles) "Big black imposing label, heavy bottle, deep punt and a cork all suggest seriousness. And a serious wine this most certainly is. More importantly than all that, it is great to see a high quality red given such a good spell in the cellar and released at what is a more than fair price. A blend of Cabernet from Padthaway and the Barossa Valley. Near opaque magenta in hue. This is full of black fruits, licorice, chocolate, blackcurrants, tar, coffee grinds and leather with real power and concentration. The palate is big and bold with flavours of molten chocolate, mocha and some vanilla – a wine with serious oomph and great length with espresso notes near the conclusion. Firm but very fine tannins and a very long finish so expect this to provide pleasure for 10 to 20 years. If rich, ripe, big and bold is your thing, you’ll love this." 95 Points Ken Gargett Clare & Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 (6 bottles) "The whole gamut of aromas that you can expect from a quality Cabernet Sauvignon are there: cedar, cigar box, dried thyme, juniper berries, blackberries, and black currant, to name a few. The tannic structure is still robust, almost entering that granular, graphite-like stage. An attractive mid-palate where the black fruit shines through, bypassing the savouriness of the oak. Good length with an alternation of bitterness reminiscent of freshly brewed coffee, savouriness and fruit. Ample length for this big boy." 95 Points Lisa Cardelli