Not many thirteen dollar Cabernets are worth keeping in the cellar. This is one of those exceptions. Black fruit is on the nose with eucalyptus and violets. On the palate it is high-toned, showing tart red cherries over the same black currants, but here is more – eucalyptus, a bit of fennel, and black licorice far in the background. Some tobacco and unsweetened chocolate show on the mid-palate, without ever losing the rich that red fruits. The finish lingers, red currants, licorice, and a touch of cayenne pepper last almost a minute. Tannins are slightly dusty, acids quite bright, showing why it lasted so long. At this price it’s a steal, and it might be showing up on clearance tables today. Highly Recommended (90-92). DH
WHO: Dowie Doole
WHAT: Cabernet Sauvignon
WHERE: Australia, McLaren Vale
WHEN: 2002
HOW MUCH: $13
