Finestra Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

"I just had winemaker/owner Brucey Babes drop over to go through his new releases. Then we nipped over to the pub for a quick schooner of Reschs, though he only had a middy (pot) because he’s only little. This Cabernet sees the addition of some Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot. It’s raised in 30% new oak, with the remainder being second and third fill barrels. It’s the best Finestra Cabernet yet produced, I feel – the 2021 vintage weaving its magic. The vineyard is in Coldstream, next to Yeringberg, and was planted in 1989.

Red and black fruits, baking spice, plenty of perfume, violet and pencils, and gee it’s a beautiful smelling wine, and there’s a slight varietal roast red capsicum/pimento thing that adds rather than detracts. It’s medium-bodied, plenty of fleshy tannin grip, acidity is bright and crisp, and the finish is long and gently chewy, with tobacco and floral perfume trailing. Essence of YV Cabernet. It’s such a strong release, and best since the 2017. I’m thinking either 94 or 95 points, though the longer I spend time with it, the more it pushes me towards the higher score. Incredible value for a wine of this class and provenance too."  Gary Walsh. The Wine Front.