‘Son of’ the Vasse Felix Cabernet Sauvignon. This regional blend incorporates more delicate fruit from each of the Vasse Felix Vineyards. Generous portions of Merlot contribute to a succulent wine with approachable tannins.
2017 was a cooler and later vintage than the previous 10 years; a year of elegant, perhaps slightly lighter bodied wines, though ripe in flavour, vibrant and very perfumed. Higher than average yields in combination with a cooler season contributed to delayed ripening of the fruit and good acid retention. Some timely warmth and sunshine occurred throughout January, although February temperatures remained moderate with some rainfall. With the cooler weather,
canopy management and fruit thinning was imperative to mitigate disease pressures and allow for even, persistent ripening. There was a warm start to March to finish the white harvest, followed by the driest April since 1982, finishing the reds beautifully.
92 points
This has substantial texture and structure, and there is a wealth of delicious red and black fruits filling all the gaps. Give it a year or two and all the components will be united.