Victoria is one of Australia's richest wine regions. Here, we find historic wineries producing elegant wines. Tahbilk is one such winery. Founded in 1860, the family-owned business continues its rich winemaking legacy to this day. The vineyards were purchased by the Purbrick family in 1925, and more than five generations have owned the estate since then.
Tahbilk's vineyards are clustered along the banks of the Goulburn River. The vines are cultivated at an altitude of 134 meters on flat terrain. The soils are sandy loam with iron oxide content. The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards date from the 1940s to the 1990s. The oldest are planted on very fine red sand soils. They are cultivated sustainably, with soil health as a priority. Older vines are harvested by hanging, while younger vines are harvested mechanically.
Based on a flavor analysis, the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are harvested. Upon arrival at the winery, the grapes are immediately destemmed, lightly crushed, and cooled to 12 to 14 degrees Celsius before being transferred to open vats. Fermentation then takes place at a temperature of 25 to 28 degrees Celsius and lasts approximately 7 to 9 days. Finally, the Tahbilk Cabernet Sauvignon is aged for 18 months in old French oak barrels.
The Cabernet Sauvignon has distinctive aromas of cassis, dark plum, and mulberry. These are complemented by some herbs, mint, and a touch of mocha. It's very approachable, and the ripe tannins carry through to the lingering spicy finish.
