Angoves Cabernet Sauvignon Coonawarra 2008 750ml

Winery: Angoves

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

Since their conception in 18th century France, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes have flourished across the Old and New Worlds and have changed the way we think about red wine forever. Their sharp and astringent nature has a wonderful ability to mellow and round with age, and when helped by being blended with Merlot and Petit Verdot or Cabernet Franc varietals – as is done in Bordeaux and elsewhere – the results can be truly remarkable. What is most special about Cabernet Sauvignon grapes is the fact that they have a true affinity for oak, and when aged in barrels made of this fragrant wood, the wine which comes out of them a few years later holds an amazing array of flavors and aromas, making Cabernet Sauvignon based wines some of the most memorable in the world. Single variety bottles from the New World made from this grape are also increasing in popularity, as the strong flavors and full-bodied nature of these wines is a great match for many global cuisines.

Region: Limestone Coast

The Limestone Coast in Southern Australia has long since been an important wine producing region for the country, with almost one third of all Australian wines being produced there. The region benefits enormously from its coastal position, enjoying a cool maritime climate for much of the year, complete with brisk ocean breezes which help the grapes ripen slowly and fully. Many of the highest quality wines of Australia are made in this special region, most notably the excellent Cabernet Sauvignon wines made from Limestone Coast grapes. However, grapes of both colors grow exceptionally well in the mineral rich soils of Limestone Coast, and wineries have for many decades experimented successfully with a range of grape varietals, making it an interesting and exciting region for wine makers and drinkers alike.

Country: Australia

With over sixteen thousand hectares of Australian land now under vine, Australia has become something of a world leader in regards to wine production. One of Australia's key attributes to their success has been their willingness to leave traditional vineyard practices to one side, and develop techniques which are perfectly suited to a New World country. Modern Australian wineries take into consideration the climate and the unique soil types which cover much of their country, and have had fantastic results from cross-breeding programs and blending practices which make the most of the grape varietals which thrive most successfully there, notably the Shiraz and Chardonnay grapes. In recent years, Australia has been lauded as the 'most influential' wine producing country in the world, and the rest of the New World is looking down under for inspiration, and the ability to produce comparable fine wines on their own terrain.