Wirra Wirra Angelus Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 (McLaren Vale, SA)
14%, Screwcap, $70
Cabernet is always the ugly child in the Vale, nowhere near in vogue as Shiraz. The great wines – like the old Reynella Cabs for example – are shit-hot, so its not like the variety can’t work in the region. What’s more interesting is that the Barossa does Cab better than the Vale I reckon, while the Vale does better alternates (at this point in time).
Indeed this is a stayer, but nowhere near as sexy as its Grenache and Shiraz brethren. Clearly McLaren Vale from first whiff, the nose is stacked with concentrated black fruits and an overlay of varietal mint and eucalypt. The whole structure here is all about ageworthiness, the tannins dry and the whole palate just a bit severe. Still, everything is ripe and it doesn’t feel overly brutish, just firm.
A firm red for the future – it will probably look great in 10 years time.
Source: Sample
Tasted: Dec 14
Drink: 2015-2024+
Score: 17.8/20, 92/100
Would I buy it? Not yet. Promise for the future though.
Buy online: Cracka Wines, Wirra Wirra website
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