Part of the new “Blass Noir” series that are available exclusively to Dan Murphy’s.

Wolf Blass, Blass Noir Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra 2014

15 months new and old French oak. Full, yet tidy Coonawarra nose: smooth blackberry, mulberry, black olive, earthy mint, dust and even a touch of blueberry creeping in. Alive and somewhat youthful but manages to be restrained and tight: not a skerrick of anything out of place. The palate leads to the same fruits as the nose, yet deeper and with the added fun of spice from the oak.  Just enough mint to give a contrasting lift to the layers of dark fruits before plentiful fine tannins.

A new label has the potential to be so over the top just to engage the full bore fans, but graciously holds itself back. Cellaring potential plus. Bravo Chris Hatcher and team, an excellent wine.

RRP: $34.99 (though Dan’s website currently lists this for $29.99)

Alc: 14.5%

Wine sample courtesy of Wolf Blass and TWE