Vasse Felix Filius Cabernet Merlot 2023 (Australia)

Description

Blackcurrant, Herbal, Oak

"Great colour and aromatic intensity with dark berries and a hay, dried herb signature. The core scent within the bouquet is that of stones and clay then fruit and wood. Excellent weight and intensity on the palate with core flavours reflecting the bouquet, there’s an abundance of tannins and acidity supported by core fruit flavours of berries and plums, wood spices and some earth smoke qualities. Well made, complex, dry and lengthy. A wine that is still very youthful needing cellar time to bring together all the attributes. Best from 2028 through 2036+" Cameron Douglas, Master Sommelier, Oct 2024

Deep plum with a purple tinge. Light, fragrant raspberry and blackcurrant coulis with a hint of rhubarb and a note of rose petal. A complex array of savoury nuances, including Mexican chocolate, native potpourri, and a hint of fresh mushroom and leather. A soft, fresh entrance reveals bright fruit and a build of dusty tannins, finishing powdery and dry. The elegant yet juicy core boasts fresh raspberry, blackcurrant, and a lingering hint of native potpourri. Fresh on release, 10 years to reveal beautiful aged complexities..

‘Son of’ the Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon. A modern, regional blend with the elegance and structure of classic Cabernet in a bright, earlier drinking style. Generous portions of Merlot contribute to a succulent wine with approachable tannins.

A cool dry spring delayed vine development by 2-3 weeks, allowing time to open canopies which paid off come veraison. December, January and February brought consistent dry and warm conditions which saw vine development catch up nicely. Yields and bunch weights were a highlight, with fruit displaying beautiful balance. Ideal mild conditions allowed Chardonnay to develop bright acidity and sound flavour ripeness. March brought three small rain incidents, the most significant of which occurred post white harvest. Cool evenings and moderate daytime temperatures with afternoon sea breezes were ideal for gentle, consistent tannin ripening in our reds which maintained dense flavour. Low Marri Blossom presence resulted in the largest netting program since 2019, with bird pressure at a high during harvest. Overall, vineyard plots have shown excellent balance with more fruit and canopy, reflecting vine health and minimal heat stress from a milder season.