Wendouree Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

The Wendouree, crafted by Tony and Lita Brady, remains a true representation of its origins since the vines were first planted by Alfred Percy Birks in 1893. Considered by many as one of Australia's greatest Shirazes, this wine is made from low-yielding, beautifully formed old vines, many of which are from the original plantings. The vineyard is managed with low-input viticulture and the winemaking process is laissez-faire, allowing the wine to truly speak of its place. Wendouree wines are renowned for their exceptional quality and rich heritage, with the celebrated Wendouree Shiraz standing out as a true gem. This wine is derived from the estate's original 1893 plantings, believed to be genetic material from the original James Busby collection. Located on an easterly ridge towards the northern edge of the Clare Valley, the unirrigated Wendouree vineyards have shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone. The low-yielding old shiraz vines produce small berries with thick skins and a high seed content, resulting in a wine with exceptional depth and complexity. Despite its reputation and heritage, there are remarkably few older bottles of Wendouree wines in circulation. This can be attributed to the way the wines were sold until 1974, when they were sold in bulk and bottled and marketed by merchants, resulting in blended and single varietal shiraz wines being almost never seen. Wendouree wines are a testament to the quality of the vineyards and the winemakers' dedication to crafting exceptional wines. The Wendouree Shiraz, in particular, showcases the unique terroir of the Clare Valley and the heritage of the original James Busby collection, making it a true standout among Australian wines.

The Clare Valley wine region is located in South Australia and is known for producing exceptional Riesling wines, as well as other varietals such as Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Chardonnay. The region's vineyards are planted on shallow, meagre soils with red loam over limestone, contributing to the unique terroir of the wines. The climate is warm to hot in summers and cool in winters. The region is divided into five districts, each producing distinct wine styles. The Clare Valley has won countless international awards and is a must-visit destination for wine enthusiasts.

The Wendouree Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 has a deep ruby colour with a refined aroma profile. On the nose, there are notes of blackcurrant, blackberry and cedarwood. On the palate, this wine is medium-bodied with a refined acidity and dusty tannins. The flavors of blackcurrant and blackberry continue on the palate, along with a subtle hint of tobacco. The wine has a long finish that is quite dry, with a good texture that makes it interesting and enjoyable. The Wendouree Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 is an excellent wine that showcases the best of the Clare Valley region.

Wendouree Cabernet Sauvignon derives from the cool central and western areas of the historic Wendouree vineyard. The cooler central block with its smaller berries is known for its “spicy characters and very firm almost astringent tannins”. The western side brings “floral” notes and a softer structure. Consultant winemaker Stephen George – together with Lita and Tony Brady – make a wine that profoundly articulates the individual character of this unique and important vineyard site. After vinification in open fermenters, the wine completes fermentation and remains in stainless steel until November before maturation in new (about 25%) and used French oak for 12 months. This is a very muscular cellaring style with dark chocolate mint fruit characters and fine sinewy tannins. - Andrew Caillard MW.

The Finer Details
Style - Red Wine
Varietal - Cabernet Sauvignon
Country - Australia
Region - Clare Valley, South Australia
Vintage - 2005
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.7%