Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2015, Coonawarra
Dense, deep ruby, with a tight rim. The brooding nose carries dark forest fruits(juicy plums, blackcurrants) and is eucalyptus, hinting also leather tones. The palate shows balance, but this is a very close wine at this point with fine tannins. Medium bodied & tastes older than its age would suggest, with a long finish and don't feel as much the ABV13.8%. This 2015 is the 60th release of Wynns and sources from 17 vineyards, around 30% from the north of Coonawarra’s terra rossa cigar strip, 20% from the south and the rest from the centre. It was aged for 18 months in French oak from 8 different cooper – barriques, vats and puncheons. Twenty per cent of the oak was new.
Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon is a true icon of Australian wine and a perennial favourite in auction circles. To be able to age gracefully and display excellent varietal and regional characteristics is another reason why it is sought after by connoisseurs. What we witness is this wine is connoisseurs' favourite in dinner tastings because it can age and stand up to challenges from Bordeaux Blends and clarets.
This wine is under the 'shadow' of the top-top Cuvee John Riddock. And neither cabernet, Wynns nor Coonawarra are the high fashion these days. So this wine may not be groovy enough for the trendy eateries.
Consistent score; stable prices. Very high scores accorded. for example
98 Points; Huon Hooke and Bob Campell.
Very deep purple colour; the bouquet young and fresh, the fruit aromas bright and reminding of blueberry, raspberry and mulberry. A hint of dried banana on the nose is the only inkling of oak that is given. A very elegant wine, intense and balanced, finely-honed and very long. Time will reveal it to be a superb vintage. Tremendous persistence and utterly gorgeous flavours. Drink 2017 to 2043; Alcohol: 13.8%.
95+ Points; Mike Bennie; The Wine Front Anticipated, awaited, people jones for the Wynns Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon. Even tempered, reliable, structured, cellar-worthy. All that and more. No doubt that the reign of Sue Hodder at the helm of Wynn’s has been pivotal, phenomenal, legacy-making. Brilliant to see. Superb release. Unruffled pedigree here. Understated cabernet that thumbs its nose at the universe saying ‘Coonawarra has a righteous place amongst the stars’. It’s a purring flow of knitted tannins woven firm over succulent, dark berried, fine garrigue, graphite-edged fruit character. Tight, just medium weighted, exceptionally long, controlled and ultra fine in its finish. It’s not for now so much as a generation from now, but there’s a greedy pleasure in early approach and admiring what’s in your glass. Excellent wine. Tasted : Jun17; Alcohol : 13.8%;Closure : Screwcap; Drink : 2017 - 2035.
96 Points; Jeremy Oliver; On Wine A superb expression of medium to full-bodied Coonawarra cabernet whose pristine, mouthfilling flavours of cassis, mulberries and dark plums are deftly enhanced by fresh cedary oak and backed by hint of mineral and dried herbs. From its floral perfume to its exceptionally long and seamless finish, it’s artfully balanced and stylish, building in richness and texture. A long-term regional classic. Drink: to 2035-2045.
98 Points | Huon Hook. Winemaker Sue Hodder has crafted an impressively balanced 2015 vintage with a feeling of ripe fruit, black pepper, dry leaves and soft acidity. Polished, fine French oak stretches out the back palate and enhances the dark and brambly notes. The tannins are 'melted', perfectly ripe, and the finish is long, smooth, fragrant and juicy.
