2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Margaret River
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Tasting notes
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec. 100% French oak, 43% new, 57% one to four years old, for 18 months. TA 7.5 g/l, pH 3.44, RS 0.45 g/l. They introduced greater fermentation capacity and so could macerate for 30 days or so. Still deep crimson in colour. Fragrant with mulberries (dark-red fruits that are sweet but tart) light stone-dust effect and a little more meaty on the nose than the 2019 vintage. Still deliciously fresh and now truly velvet-like in texture plus an attractive, almost bitter, freshness on the finish. (JH)
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is fully mature but in no danger of imminent collapse. There's a slightly herbal lift on the nose—hints of sage and bay leaf—then fresh red currants and raspberries. Medium to full-bodied, it's silky in texture, with a gently lingering finish.
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec. 100% French oak, 43% new, 57% one to four years old, for 18 months. TA 7.5 g/l, pH 3.44, RS 0.45 g/l. They introduced greater fermentation capacity and so could macerate for 30 days or so. Mid crimson with a pale rim. Mild and well-balanced, integrated nose. A little more perfumed than the 2007. A little sandpapery tannins on the finish. Very light and delicate – I wonder whether people would know it was Australia blind? Light but more complex than the 2007. Still luncheon claret! But it filled out in the glass. (JR)
A little more leafy on the nose than the Cab/Merlot blend. A touch mineral too. Dense and very finely textured tannins. The alcohol is well integrated. Elegant in a rich and fresh style. (JH)
About the producer
Vasse Felix was the first winery in Margaret River, founded in 1967. Today, it is one of Western Australia’s – and the New World’s – most respected names, crafting outstanding, cool-climate Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon from this remote region, south of Perth.