Part of Howard Park’s Distinguished Sites range. The Scotsdale is sourced from the famed Abercrombie vineyard in Mount Barker sub-region of Great Southern that is nearing 50 years old. 2024 was ‘early, compressed and fast paced.’ Abundant marri blossom meant the silver eye birds didn’t have to come for the grapes for their nectar fix leading near zero loss from the pesky (but pretty) things. Harvest started 4 weeks earlier than ‘usual.’ Winemaking sees parcels fermented in small open top fermenters and closed stainless steel before 18 months maturation in French oak (~25% new). Note, bottle image is 2019, but naught else has changed.

Howard Park, Scotsdale, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Barker, 2024

A deep bruise purple with vibrant rim. Floral, jumps from the glass with cassis, blackberry, violet, choc mint bviscuit, fresh bay leaf, picked walnut, irish moss, dutch licorice and coca. Opulnet fruit front, with cool(er) climate elegance. Medium frame with hyper fine tannins that spread well into the tail. immediately approachable with plenty to suggest a log life ahead. Delicious.

RRP: $54
Alc: 13.5%
Rating: 94/100

Wine sample courtesy of Howard Park