2016 Flowstone Queen of the Earth Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

The first Queen of the Earth Cabernet Sauvignon from the Home Block in Forest Grove. Open-fermented, 2.5 weeks on skins post-fermentation pressed to thin-staved French barriques for 3 years, gravity-bottled, 15 months in bottle before release, 110 dozen made. A great Margaret River vintage, and (as always) a great wine; flows along and across the mouth without a ripple.

97 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au Drink by 2047

Nose of bramble, cedar and cinnamon lending to a velvety but assertive palate of black fruit, clove and spices. Finish is complex and long with immense potential.

Panel Chair: Joe Wadsack  Co-Chair: Peter McCombie MW

Gold International Wine Challenge

Appearance is deep purple/red, with purple hues. Aroma is blackcurrant, red berries, mocha, dark chocolate, hints of violet, with underlying cedar notes. Complex and engaging. The palate is red and blue fruits to start. The flavours build to a beautifully textural mid palate, supported by the spicy oak, and gently fade with finely honed tannins. The length of the palate is a magical combination of the fruit and silky fine tannins. This wine manages to display a beautifully lithe feel, while still retaining the classic Margaret River structure. 2015 was yet another classic for Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon, making wines of structure, length and texture.