Rightio, the first of this label was the 2016. But the 2018 is the current release. The front label now features lots of #LittleGoldStickers from global wine shows. The back label is a photo by the award winning landscape photographer Benjamin Goode. Anyways. 100% Clare Valley, Taylor’s home dirt. The quintessential Australian blend.

Taylors Wines, Masterstroke, Cabernet Shiraz, Clare Valley, 2018

Intriguing mix of .the blend: Clare herb profile with graphite, stony fascia and a hint of meaty pan jus development bordering umami stock. Chocolate mint wafer biscuit and pouch tobacco, native plum, oak char, black olive, pastille and cassis. Medium fleshed with bright black/purple plum Shiraz fruit plumping out the dusty, rural Cabernet framework. Some firm, dry and long persisting tannins give the runway to dried fruit slice, 5 spice, fruit strap, leather and olive. Layered and smartly done.

RRP: $60
Alc: 14%
Rating:  93/100

Wine sample courtesy of Taylors Wines