Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 - Black Market Deal #59580

At seven years old, this Cabernet has reached that sweet spot where primary fruit flavours have evolved into complex secondary characteristics. The tannins have softened considerably from their youthful grip, while earthy, cedar-like notes have emerged alongside the core blackcurrant fruit. This maturation process is particularly rewarding with Cabernet Sauvignon, as the variety's natural structure allows it to develop beautifully over time.

Coonawarra's famous terra rossa soil - a thin strip of red earth over limestone - creates ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon. This unique terroir imparts distinctive eucalyptus and mint characteristics that complement the variety's natural blackcurrant flavours. The region's cool climate ensures slow ripening, resulting in wines with excellent structure and the ability to age gracefully, as demonstrated by this 2017 vintage.

These tertiary flavours emerge through bottle ageing as the wine's components integrate and evolve. Cedar notes often develop from the interaction between tannins and trace oak compounds, while eucalyptus characteristics are enhanced by Coonawarra's unique climate and soil. The mulberry flavours represent the evolution of primary blackcurrant fruit into more complex, jammy notes that develop depth and richness over time.

A 95-point rating from Wine Orbit places this wine in the 'outstanding' category, indicating exceptional quality and complexity. This score suggests the wine demonstrates perfect balance between fruit, tannin, and acidity, with remarkable depth and a long, satisfying finish. Such high ratings are typically reserved for wines that showcase both technical excellence and distinctive regional character.

Serve this wine at cellar temperature (16-18°C) to allow its complex aromatics to fully express themselves. Decanting for 30-60 minutes will help integrate the mature tannins and reveal the wine's evolved character. The full-bodied nature and aged complexity make it perfect for rich dishes like lamb, aged beef, or strong cheeses that can match its intensity and complement its earthy, cedar-influenced profile.