2021 Viader Proprietary Red

Full bottle 1,417 g. 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Cabernet Franc. Fermented in a combination of concrete, 500-litre French oak barrels and stainless-steel tanks. Extended maceration on the skins for an average of 50 days. 592 cases produced. Deep ruby. Rich sweet red and black cherry with a hint of leather and dried leaves – more evolved than expected. Fine-grained and silty tannins. Lush but with earthy complexity. (SCJ)

The 2021 Proprietary Red Blend is based largely on Cabernet Sauvignon but includes 29% Cabernet Franc. It has a solid bouquet of ripe plum and darker currants as well as smoked tobacco, potpourri, graphite, and leather that benefits from plenty of air. These carry to a rich, mouth-filling red with building, almost aggressive tannins, plenty of mid-palate depth, and a firmer, focused, age-worthy style. Hide bottles for 4-5 years, and it should evolve for 15-20 years in cold cellars.

Notes of currants, dried herbs and baking spices on the nose with a medium body with plush tannins. Attractive ripe fruit and chocolate with creamy berries and a powdery texture. Cedary finish. Creamy texture with a slightly chewy end. 71% cabernet sauvignon and 29% cabernet franc. Better from 2026.