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NOTES
Named after the proprietor of the 19th century mail coach service which once ran through their property, Henry’s Drive Vignerons is the wine operation established by Kim Longbottom and her late husband Mark who sadly passed away in 2008. Today, Kim is continuing to build the family tradition of fine winemaking with brands such as Henry’s Drive, Parson’s Flat among others. These wines are testament to Kim and Mark’s dedication to crafting fine wines from Padthaway, one of Australia’s great wine growing regions.
TASTING NOTES
In 1863, the bushranger John Montford, wearing a brown handkerchief to cover his face and brandishing a revolver, robbed the mail coach a few miles from Padthaway in a town today known as Naracoorte. Making off with over £75 in cheques, Montford’s brazen act scandalised the local population. On arrest, the said brown handkerchief with eye-holes cut was found in his swag, providing the evidence needed for his conviction.
This 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon is a vivid garnet in colour with a cherry red hue. The intriguing nose displays a complex mixture of dusty savouriness and sweet ripe blackcurrant fruit. The aromatics of freshly toasted exotic spices combine with the dried herbs of a bouquet garni, with just a hint of varietal leafiness giving a final lift.
The elegant palate is very restrained; the sweet forest fruits are drawn along the palate with a multitude of finely textured layers. Each layer builds on the last, to form a seamlessly integrated structure. The gentle even palate strikes a perfect balance between well-structured tannins, silky and firm.
OTHER REVIEWS
Light and bright-fruited; cassis and mint with a little toast in the background; fine and elegant. Cork.14.5% alc. Rating 89 James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion 2009
Ripe and generous, with beautifully focused blackberry and currant flavours, hinting at savoury black olive and bay leaf notes as the finish lingers against fine tannins. – 89 Points Harvey Steiman, Wine Spectator, May 31st 2008
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