2019 Zema Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra

Zema Estate Cabernet Sauvignon from Coonawarra exemplifies the quality and finesse that this iconic wine region is known for, with the Zema family’s dedication to traditional winemaking shining through in each bottle. Established in 1982, Zema Estate is a family-owned winery located on Coonawarra’s renowned terra rossa soils, ideal for producing Cabernet Sauvignon with depth, structure, and a distinctive sense of place. The family’s hands-on approach to vineyard management and commitment to sustainable practices ensures that each vintage reflects the character of Coonawarra’s unique terroir. By focusing on small-batch production and minimal intervention, Zema Estate captures the purity and vibrancy of its fruit, creating Cabernet Sauvignon with a classic yet approachable profile.

Winemaking at Zema Estate is guided by the family’s attention to detail, from handpicking to careful selection of grapes to ensure only the finest fruit goes into the final wine. The Cabernet Sauvignon undergoes traditional open fermentation, followed by aging in a combination of French and American oak barrels. This aging process adds layers of complexity, balancing the wine’s robust fruit flavors with subtle oak influences, while enhancing the wine’s potential to develop over time. The result is a Cabernet that is true to Coonawarra’s legacy and the Zema family’s winemaking philosophy.

In the glass, Zema Estate Cabernet Sauvignon presents a vibrant and layered expression. Aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, and a hint of mint—an iconic Coonawarra hallmark—lead on the nose, followed by subtle notes of cedar and spice. The palate is rich and structured, showcasing flavors of dark cherry, plum, and a touch of dark chocolate. Fine tannins and balanced acidity provide depth and elegance, leading to a long, smooth finish with lingering notes of graphite and oak. This Cabernet Sauvignon captures the intensity and refinement of Coonawarra, making it an excellent choice for both collectors and lovers of classic Australian Cabernet.