Wolf Blass Black Label Cab Shiraz Malbec 2013
Deep purple with a pink hint shows the potential for ageing. It can drink now if served properly though. There are plenty of fragrant blackberries, cassis and dark plum fruits reinforced with roast coffee, chocolate, black liquorice and toasted nut complexity derived from maturation and barrel fermentation. Also, hints of sage and tobacco leaf add attractive highlights, with excellent cigar-box bottle-age development just starting to show.
The palate reflects the nose and shows the persistence of flavour, seamless texture and smooth tannins, with synergistic blending from Barossa Valley for fruitiness and power, Langhorne Creek depth, complexity and richness, as well as McLaren Vale elegance. Of course, the selection for Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon intends on forming a perfect storm of concentrated power. The mix for three grapes 61% Cabernet Sauvignon – 30% Shiraz – 9% Malbec for 2013 is to create even more complexity. Cabernet for structure, Shiraz for spiciness. The final pinch of Malbec is essential for adding added dimension in roundness, fabric and colour.
Maturation is done 21 months in 58% new and 32% seasoned French oak, and 7% new and 3% seasoned American oak has enhanced overall structure and complexity. ABV is 14.5%-not too high by Australian standard-adequate for ageing. Surely this wine can age well and will mellow and develop with age to reward careful cellaring.
This wine has been a Jimmy Watson winner. Being a warm vintage, 2013 gets on the whole a good rating.for for Barossa, Langhorne Creek and McLaren Vale.
