From hillside vineyards across the Estate, comes this well-regarded Bordeaux-style blend of (this year) two-thirds Cabernet Franc and Merlot, with Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon in supporting roles. Inkily ruby-black in the glass, with dark, lush aromas bursting from the glass. Starting with black plum, blackcurrant, boysenberry, graphite, peat, cedar and cloves on the nose. Dry, bold but elegant with lovely supple tannin, and medium acidity. Good flow into a complex and layered palate. Flits between a ripe depth of fruit and more savoury and mineral flavours. Cigar box, autumn leaves, umami character of black olive and smoked meat. There’s also a herbal element deeper into the wine, with green notes of eucalyptus, capsicum and nettle. The texture is smooth, and the oak influence is apparent, but well-judged, adding an edge of vanilla and toastiness. 94pts.
Man O’ War ‘Ironclad’ 2018
