- Margaret River, WA - $16-$25
- Cork
- 13.5%alc
I've long suppled at the teat of Yalumba's foray into Tasmanian sparkling wine through the Jansz label; and now, with the 2008 Ringbolt, I'm starting to become a regular follower of Yalumba's venture into the fine world of Margaret River cabernet sauvignon.
With the fierce leap of a pouncing tiger, Ringbolt's 2008 delivers the aromatic intensity of an incredibly fragrant, well defined wine. Regional and smoky, its beautifully spoken aromas of char-grilled meats, violets and dried tobacco leaf lead the performance, with the backing notes played by varietally correct blackberries and fresh cedar oak. On entry to the palate it's agreeably smooth and rich, but it flows on fractionally ripe and meaty, as its flavours of dark currant fruits and dried leaves are drawn nicely down the palate by rich, bitter dark chocolate tones. The tannin extract isn't particularly physical or commanding, yet it does finish adequately dry in more of a crisp, silky linen-like fashion, making it an ideal Margaret River cabernet for drinking over the shorter term.
ü Thanks to a beautifully fragrant opening, I can't help but be a little disappointed by the smooth, rich, ripe and rounder aspects of the palate here. Having said that, it is priced accordingly and makes a smart choice for anyone after a sound Margaret River cabernet to drink tonight, with good company. Drink to 2015.
90 points
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