Balnaves The Tally Cabernet Sauvignon 2010

The Balnaves vineyard comprises twelve blocks of Cabernet Sauvignon vines of varying acreage and vine age, the oldest planted in 1975. Since the construction of Balnaves winery in 1996, these blocks are divided again into smaller parcels, following soil types and topography, with approximately forty Cabernet Sauvignon fermentations being conducted each vintage.The best of these ferments are set a side during vintage for our Balnaves Cabernet Sauvignon and in outstanding years, Balnaves "The Tally" Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. The Tally illustrates a trend in Coonawarra: a trend to strive beyond that which the region has produced before...- Campbell Mattinson

"The Tally, representing the top rung of Balnaves' cabernet-based reds, is given the full dose of fine French timber, and the fruit carries it off with regal style. This has cedary black fruit aromas, plums, vanillin, fresh, dark leaves and freshly tilled earthy notes. Fruit flavour bubbles up through the palate amid tannins that are supple, elongated and sturdy in character, the balance is right on and the finish leaves you salivating. Cellar with confidence; this is impeccable." - Nick Stock, The Age Good Wine Guide 97 Points

 "The generous 2010 season instils an immediate appeal in The Tally, yet still upholding the cage of rigid, finely structured tannins that provide Tally its long-enduring potential. Succulent, deep and enticing blackberries and black plums are lifted by fragrant violet perfume, undiminished by long skin maceration and 19 months in new French oak barrels. A strong future is guaranteed, albeit in a generously fruited and immediately enticing guise." - Tyson Stelzer, Wine Taste Weekly 96 Points

 "The "standard" 2010 cabernet sauvignon from Balnaves is excellent; this Reserve version isn't a whole lot better, but it is a smidge. Both are outstanding examples of the potency of the Balnaves-Bissell combination.

Fruit power, strength of tannin, fineness and finesse. It's all here. Layers of blackcurrant and bay leaves, peppermint and rich dark plum. There's a chocolatey/pencilly note here too but really, this presents as a seamless whole. The quality is outstanding. The length, the poise, the structural foundation. Tip-top Coonawarra cabernet." - Campbell Mattinson, Wine Front 95 Points