Before Heathcote became synonymous with Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon was the region's anchor variety. It still has a quiet stronghold — and for good reason.
When Shiraz first arrived in Heathcote, the early plantings came at a time when Cabernet ruled. Winemakers had to work hard to get Shiraz taken seriously. These days, it's the other way around — Cab plays second fiddle to Shiraz in the popular imagination. But the soil doesn't play favourites.
Heathcote has iron-oxide-laden soils derived from rock of the Cambrian age — the oldest in Victoria, at over 500 million years. Deep, calcium-rich, and weathered from ancient greenstone, these soils are prized for their water retention. They feed the vine through the growing season, produce small, concentrated berries — and they rarely need irrigation. The result is fruit that carries the place in every glass.
For Cabernet Sauvignon specifically, the rich fruit of Heathcote balances the variety's inherent structure. Wines from the north of the region tend toward full-bodied blackcurrant and cassis, while the south brings mint and spice in more elegant, medium-bodied expressions.
Our 2022 sits right in that sweet spot.
Region: Heathcote
Sub-region: Kimbolton (south Heathcote).
Harvest: April 2022.
Aged: French barriques (4-year-old).
Bottled: June 2024.
Quantity: 136 dozen.
Closure: Diam.
Palate: Deep mulberry in colour. Perfumed and floral on the nose: black cherry, ripe blackcurrant and plum, with soft tobacco and a hint of herb drifting through. On the palate, it's medium-bodied with a full mouthfeel, delicate tannin, and a dry, lingering finish.
P • P • P • Classification: Place.
