2006 Smith & Hooper Cabernet/Merlot, Wrattonbully, S. Australia

“Not as well-known as Coonawarra, twenty minutes drive to its south but much prettier; the elevated, undulating terroir giving the fruit a nice lift. Nor is the region as populated. For me though Wrattonbully has the potential, as here, of producing benchmark Australian Cabernets without the need to cross-border blend. The wine is deep magenta in colour, the nose suggests briary fruit, rich Cabernet cassis and earthy spice, courtesy of 18 months ageing in 80% French 20% American oak barrels. Ripe red plum, black berry fruits, liquorice and clove flavours delight the palate of this easy drinking wine…perfect with barbeque ribs.”
(David Berry Green, BBR Buyer)