The synergy and fusion captivate with this Tapanappa Whalebone Cabernet Shiraz. Joy and pleasure seep through every pore. A wine that evolved fabulously over three days of tasting, it’s one to tuck away, that’s for sure.
From the last hot vintage of the previous 15 years (2005-2019), a tiny 2.5 tonnes of fruit was harvested per hectare due to poor fruit set. The Cabernet was harvested on 9 April with the Shiraz from the adjacent Crayeres vineyard coming in on 20 March.
The finished wine saw 50% new French oak for 17 months with the final blend of Cabernet and Shiraz at 85/15.
Red currants, red berries, blueberries and blackberries skip from the glass. Over a few days, the aromas and flavour profile showcase wonderful density. Tomato paste and spiced roasted red capsicum add some savoury flare but the tension demonstrates that time will be its friend. Satsuma plums, cigar box and tar add further detail with some bitter orange rind on close. Let it breathe and you’ll be rewarded. Above all, it’s an excellent wine that will comfortably age beyond a decade.
Drink to 10 years+
95/100
