Steadily, Barossa Valley Cabernet is being restored to the top ranks of the red wine quality ladder.
Recall that for the last 50 years Cabernet Sauvignon has been promoted as being at its best when grown in cooler, maritime climates like the ‘type’ location of Bordeaux, France. Suggesting otherwise was to be ostracised in polite wine circles.
Penfolds have held up the Barossa Valley flag as owners of the unique block 42 of 1892 Cabernet vines at Kalimna in the northern Barossa. These vines are thought to be the oldest in the world. Our view never wavered being supporters of the ripe flavours of reds from warm climates though we were alarmed by the fashion swing to the Yarra Valley and Margaret River.
A balance is being restored led by consumers since they finally decide what they wish to drink. Since we were sitting on a nice parcel of Eden Valley Merlot, trials showed it added more complexity to the final blend. When Eden Valley and Barossa Valley wines are blended the name changes to Barossa.
