Rifle & Hunt Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Wine: Pertaringa's Rifle and Hunt Cabernet is so named as the vineyard and cellars are on the corner of Rifle Range and Hunt Roads, McLaren Vale. The best fruit from the maritime McLaren Vale Hunt and Rifle vineyard is in some vintages augmented with finer, more tightly structured cooler climate Cabernet from the Adelaide Hills. Although officially in another region, the K1 vineyard at Kuitpo - also owned by Pertaringa principal Geoff Hardy - is only a few miles away as the crow flies. Traditionally vinified and aged in the best new French oak, Pertaringa is most confident that the Rifle & Hunt will cellar well.

Vintage: The 2009 vintage started off really positive with good, even temperatures and an early drop of rain in December. Hot conditions in January were combated by excellent canopy management before cooler February / March temperatures allowed for a beautiful even ripening period post veraison. Overall an excellent year showcasing a good balance of ripe fruit and cool climate complexity.

Tasting Note: Deep, dark and mysterious, this Cabernet exudes a subtle confidence. Succulent dark plum, mulberry and light licorice notes intermingle with a delicate herbaceous / menthol character. Not at all aggressive, the palate has a pleasant balance of rich fruit and zingy, tight acid, all pointing towards a long and prosperous future in the cellar. Drink now to 15+ years.