2013 Henschke Marble Angel Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley

The Barossa has been home to the history and heritage of grape-growing and winemaking for over five generations. The Barossa was also home to Julius Henschke, a famous craftsman, artist and sculptor. Julius was recognised for ornate headstones and angel sculptures at Gnadenberg Cemetery, as well as his most famous work, the inspiring War Memorial on North Terrace in Adelaide. The Angel of Compassion and Duty sculptures are acclaimed across the country. His craft focused on the most pristine white Angaston marble quarried next to the cabernet sauvignon vineyard at Light Pass, planted on ancient red clay and limestone soil, which brings out exquisite flavour and structure in the wine.

100% Single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from 40 years old vines aged in 40% new and 60% seasoned French hogsheads for 18 months has produced a deep crimson with violet hues wine. Sweet, lifted aromas of cassis, ripe black and blue berries, anise and plum skin with underlying hints of crushed herbs, cigar box and cedar dominate the nose. Rich, generous layers of black and blue fruits meld with beautifully balanced acidity and fine-grained chalky tannins for a long, complex finish. This is an exceptional wine with cellaring potential of 25+ years.

100% cabernet sauvignon from 40+yo vines at Light Pass, matured in French hogsheads (41% new) for 18 months. Following in the footsteps of the superb '12, Marble Angel was never going to be easy, but this does better than most Barossa Valley cabernets. Its tannin structure is a feature, giving the wine length and (paradoxically) attractive mouthfeel, which is the heart of a very good cabernet.

95 points James Halliday Wine Companion