The Cigar; thus named to describe the unique cigar-shaped strip of rich red terra rossa soil of the Coonawarra. A shift to screw cap sees the longevity of this bargain increase.

Yalumba, The Cigar, Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra, 2018

Vibrant purple rims to the deep garnet heart. Plump, ripe, just picked blackberries over strawberry compote, After-Dinner Mints, cedar and exotic spice with sinew/umami coming from a touch of lanolin/old shearing shed.  Silky depth to the cascading layers of sweet/dark fruit punctuated with fresh spice and beacon-like acidity providing lift. Lingering echoes of fine dark chocolate and moreish, just firm, grippy tannins. A keenly priced example of fine Coonawarra winemaking.

RRP: $35
Alc: 14.5%
Rating: 18.5/20 (94/100)

Wine sample courtesy of Yalumba