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Tasting of iconic cuvées: Australia

22/01/2025

Selected highlights of stunning cuvees from Australia
each worthy of the world’s finest cellars!

 

Wynns, John Riddoch 2021

Coonawarra : 92/100
The tannic structure, still slightly lively due to its youth, is already well-balanced by the wine’s natural freshness and its fruitiness. The finish is particularly appealing, with vibrant, zesty raspberries.

 

Jim Barry The Armagh Shiraz 2021

Clare Valley : 96/100
A wine as dense as it is fresh, featuring notes of blackcurrant, blackberry, strawberry, and blueberry. Licorice and pepper complement the fruit beautifully, creating a harmonious balance. The tannic structure is powerful yet consistent, delivering a refined and balanced wine.

 

Cloudburst 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River : 94/100
An impressive concentration of fruit, predominantly dark berries. While the tannic structure seems understated, its finesse becomes evident upon closer observation. The fresh finish is highlighted by a tangy interplay of blood orange and eucalyptus, offering a masterful balance of bitterness and freshness.

 

Cloudburst 2021

Malbec, Margaret River : 95/100
The nose reveals dried rose petals, plums, dried mint, and eucalyptus. The mid-palate displays a dynamic freshness that balances the wine’s impressive density. The fresh finish unveils delightful chocolate notes, poised to evolve beautifully over time. Outstanding!

 

Penfolds, St Henri Shiraz 2021

South Australia : 94/100
The nose is characterized by notes of licorice and blackcurrant, with a hint of toast. On the palate, refreshing acidity accompanies bold black fruits, creating a balanced profile. Notes of black pepper and smoke emerge, while the tannic structure gains strength toward the finish, softened by a lovely freshness. Ideally, this wine should rest for 2–3 years to reach optimal maturity. A refined licorice finish will please aficionados.

 

Penfolds Bin 707

Cabernet Sauvignon, 2022, South Australia : 97/100
Exceptional aromatic depth, with a refreshing vibrancy marked by licorice seamlessly integrated with blackcurrant. The dense black fruit core is well-supported by the wine’s freshness. Palate flavors of vanilla, toast, and hazelnuts develop elegantly. Tremendous freshness and impressive length. A top-tier expression of Australian Cabernet Sauvignon from Penfolds, with remarkable aging potential.

 

Penfolds Grange 2020

South Australia : 99/100
An extraordinary wine of immense breadth. Concentrated yet fresh, its fruitiness is striking in its presence and density. The finely honed tannic structure amplifies this impression, delivering immense power. This wine demands at least seven years of aging to fully reveal its depth. Exceptional strength and freshness, with an extraordinarily long finish. A truly outstanding wine with incredible aging potential.

Text and photo : Xavier Lacombe