Ranked #3 of 59 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra
97/100
5 Stars
Huon Hooke
The colour is very deep, concentrated red/purple and the bouquet is a deep, brooding mix of blackberry violets, blueberry and blackcurrant. Perfect fruit ripeness. Oak is very background, and the palate is full-bodied and beautifully-structured, with the right amount of firmness in the tannins which run the full length of the palate and leave the finish cleansing and dry, the aftertaste refreshing and moreish. A superb wine and a classic of both variety and region. (The 63rd vintage of this wine)
Tasted: 24/10/2020
Drink: 2021 to 2045
96 Points James Halliday
One sip, you're in. Another seductive Black Label - its 63rd vintage - and it's a wow. Excellent vintage conditions have no doubt helped, but this Australian icon doesn't need a lot of assistance outside its trio of long-time 'curators': Sue Hodder, Allen Jenkins and Sarah Pidgeon. Masses of blackberry fruits, a touch of black olive savouriness, stewed rhubarb, violets. Casts a wide net across the palate with sustained black fruits and spice, but also notes of coffee grounds, bay leaf and vanilla. Oak enhances, yet keeps itself in the background. Drink to 2041.
Jeni Port. December, 2022