Elderton Ashmead Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

Like the Command block, which is an amazing resource to the Elderton Estate, the Ashmead block has consistently produced small parcels of excellent quality fruit. The vineyard was almost destroyed in 1997 to make way for higher yielding vines, however the family made the decision to promote the vineyard to a higher destiny – thus the Ashmead. The 2014 is the fifteenth release of this unparalleled wine, and is a superior example of Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon aged in a mix of new French oak hogsheads from about 8 different coopers. Elderton is not unfamiliar with premium Cabernet, having won more than 8 trophies for this varietal including the 1993 Jimmy Watson Trophy.

Estate grown on the Nuriootpa vineyard, the fruit is sourced from a single block planted circa 1944. Deep alluvial silt over red and brown earths and limestone near the banks of the North Para River allow the vines to grow deep roots and the vines therefore need minimal irrigation. The hand harvested fruit is fermented in open top concrete fermenters with chilled ferments, hand pumpovers and cap submerging with oak header boards for eight days; the process finished with barrel ferment and malolactic fermentation in new French oak. The nose shows dark chocolate and black fruits and olives, with the palate continuing the theme, showing these typical Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon characters, giving weight and generosity to the wine. Ripe tannins add structure while being supple and mouth watering. 

'A highly polished example of Barossa Cabernet, dominated by red fruit on the bouquet, and a healthy dose of new oak; the essence of the wine lies in the tightness of the palate; the ample fine-grained tannins and tangy acid pull the fruit to a long, fine and even conclusion.' 96 points, James Halliday, Wine Companion