Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 - Clearance Deal #60597

This wine represents traditional winemaking at its finest - extended skin contact followed by nearly two years in tight-grained French oak, then patient cellar ageing. This old-school approach creates complexity that simply can't be rushed, developing the layered aromas of blackcurrant, mocha, and cedar that define premium aged Cabernet. The result is a wine with seamlessly integrated oak and sculpted tannins that showcase what patience and proper technique can achieve.

Coonawarra's famous terra rossa soils are a thin strip of iron-rich red earth over limestone that creates ideal drainage and mineral complexity. This unique terroir gives Coonawarra Cabernet its distinctive minty eucalyptus character alongside intense fruit concentration. The limestone subsoil provides natural acidity and structure, while the iron-rich topsoil contributes to the wine's deep colour and powerful tannin profile that allows for extended ageing like this 2009 vintage.

While Cabernet Sauvignon provides the wine's backbone and power, the splash of Cabernet Franc adds crucial lift and aromatic complexity. Cabernet Franc contributes floral notes, spice, and a silkier texture that balances Cabernet Sauvignon's sometimes austere tannins. This classic Bordeaux-style blending technique creates a more complete wine with enhanced perfume and elegance, particularly important in a full-bodied style like this where balance is everything.

Museum Release designation means this wine has been carefully cellared by the winery for optimal development before release, rather than being sold immediately after bottling. This 2009 vintage has had over a decade to develop secondary and tertiary flavours like truffle, leather, and espresso that only emerge with proper bottle ageing. It represents the winery's commitment to releasing wines at their peak drinking window, offering collectors and enthusiasts a fully mature, complex wine ready to enjoy now.

Decant this wine 1-2 hours before serving to allow the complex aromatics to fully express themselves and any sediment to settle. Serve at 16-18°C to showcase the intricate balance between fruit, oak, and tannins. The wine's full body and earthy complexity make it perfect for rich dishes like aged beef, lamb with herbs, or strong cheeses. The integrated oak and developed tannins also pair beautifully with mushroom-based dishes that echo the wine's truffle and earthy notes.