- Coonawarra, SA - $28-$41
- Screwcap
- 14.5%alc
I've been anticipating the release of Coonawarra's premium 2007 cabernets with great interest. Spring frosts wiped out over half the region's total crop that season, but most winery reports indicate the salvaged fruit was of a high standard. Amazingly, the entire retail allocation of Majella's 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon is distributed through a single store.
Settled and moderately deep, its nose contains heavily ripened fruit nuances of currants, blueberries and fruitcake with a minty note of creamy chocolate/vanilla oak. It just lacks the label's typical vibrancy. A bit thin and hollow, its violet infused red/blackcurrant flavours end slightly raw and green, with prickly, angular tannins underlined by herbal tones and vanilla oak.
X From a very challenging season Majella has fashioned a cabernet with suggestions of their trademark radiance and character, but without their classic balance and depth. Drink 2011-2014.
88 points
I have been looking to try this wine - '05 was a fantastic example and '06, while true to the region, did not have the Majella X-factor.
ReplyDeleteCan you let me know where this 'single store' is? There is nothing on the Majella site about it...
Thank you,
Robert Meehan.
I completely agree with your observations on the past two vintages of the Majella Robert. '05 was definitely great but I really believed the '04 had straight up wow factor.
ReplyDeleteI've seen other reviews of this wine which were more favourable, but I've 'sampled' it since this review and I stand by my opinion.
That 'single store' is Melbourne Street Fine Wine Cellars at Melbourne St in North Adelaide. I was there about 3 weeks ago and they had ample stocks then, it didn't look like they were selling out too fast.
Good luck with finding a bottle Robert!
Thanks for dropping by!
Chris P
Opened a bottle tonight Chris. Pleasant enough, some good Coonawarra earth, cassis and mint on the nose but still somewhat thin and green through the body. It drinks OK, not a stellar wine.
ReplyDeleteYou've got to wonder, whilst quality of remaining fruit was high, what would the lost fruit have brought to the overall blend?