2013 The Caley Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz

Less powerful fruit than their 2012, on first sniff. Firmer tannin too, although the same hard-edged acidity that provides very prominent structure. Almost austere in style, with tart blackcurrant fruit, and there seems to be a bit of heat on the finish. There’s less overt oak spice on the palate, and the finish has considerable astringency indicating plenty of ageability. No lack of polish, but perhaps bound by youth at present. (RH)

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Shiraz, the Cabernet coming from the clay-based D Block of Yalumba's Menzies vineyard in Coonawarra planted in 1992. The Shiraz for this vintage came from the Cowham vineyard planted in 1955 and the Schrapel vineyard planted in 1974. Picked 13 February to 25 March. Ambient yeast and matured for 20 months in 41% new French barriques and 59% older French oak. No alcohol was given. Sweet and rich on the nose with more than a hint of cough medicine spice (menthol?) plus balsam with some rather obvious heat on the end. Tannins still much in evidence. Wait. (JR)

55% Coonawarra Cabernet, 45% Barossa Valley Shiraz. Lustrous garnet. Remarkably integrated nose. Still rather dry chewiness on the end. Desperately needs food if drunk as early as this. Just a little demanding rather pleasurable at the moment. But certainly not galumphing. This seems rather embryonic. (JR)