Ranked #4 of 17 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz from Barossa Valley
94/100
4.5 Stars
Huon Hooke
Very deep, bright and saturated purple-red colour, with aromas of earthy/stone, graphite and ferrous notes, shiraz leading the tune, but the cabernet filling in the back and front of the palate. The line is a trifle uneven at this early stage but time will surely put that to rights. Firm, solid, long palate, begging for more time. (McLaren Vale, Coonawarra, Barossa Valley, Wrattonbully, Padthaway)
Tasted: 19/07/2023
Drink: 2026 to 2043
94 Points James Halliday
The famous multiregional blend of 53/47% cabernet sauvignon/shiraz matured in American oak (37% new) for 12 months. Densely packed black and dark berry fruits cut with hints of herbs, roasting meats, licorice, dark chocolate, earth and oak spice. Coming in after some of its plush and elegant siblings, this 389 release looked a little chewy and sinewy in comparison. Finishes with robust berry fruits, oolong tea and a blast of American oak creaminess. I've no doubt it will age well, but it wasn't very giving on this showing. Drink to 2045.
Dave Brookes. July, 2023