Cabernet and the Macedon Ranges don’t usually go together in the same sentence, for the reason that the region is mostly too cold to ripen it properly. Nonetheless, my attempts to taste some local wines en route in the region led me to this 2008 cabernet sauvignon from the hitherto unknown Butlers Lane Vineyard. Not a lot of information is out there on the internet regarding this producer, so I will let the wine speak for itself. Were I slightly more humorous, that would be the end of the post. But since I am not, I shall continue.
A medium to pronounced intensity ruby in colour, the 2008 vintage opens to a clean, medium intensity aroma of mint, herbs and gum leaf – all characters I frequently see in cabernet sauvignon wines from these cooler parts (due to altitude). The palate is dry with medium-high acidity, resolved tannins and flavours of blackcurrant, some sweet cassis, clove, mint, gum leaf and dried tea leaves, set to medium length. Despite its apparent minty character – a character I usually don’t enjoy – I found the wine had a certain balance and subtlety that quite appealed, and came together well. Good
Abv: 13%
Price: $20s
Vendors: Check http://www.wine-searcher.com
Website: not apparent
Tasted: September 2012
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