Takes some balls growing Cabernet in the Yarra. But when it’s done right, it’s good.

Rob Dolan, Cabernet Sauvignon, Yarra Valley 2015

Smells a bit mushy: wet pencils, mint, syrupy cassis, blue fruits and bay leaves. The oak treatment more like a fingerprint rather than the actual digit. The weight of the alcohol makes this feel sweetly burdened when it isn’t framed in an Herculean manner to begin with. The fine tannins are plentiful but don’t feel dominant, standing alongside around varietal black fruits and olives. However, the sharp fruit seems flighty, almost jumpy not knowing which way to turn whilst still youthful. I’d like for this to lay down for a while before I next get a chance to see it.

RRP: $35

Alc: 14.5%

Wine sample courtesy of Rob Dolan Wines