2019 Zema Estate Cluny, Coonawarra

Blend of 64/21/8/7% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/malbec/cab franc. Blackcurrant, dark chocolate, foresty herbs and violet notes make a positive impression. There's a gentle twiggy bitterness to the aftertaste but it neither detracts nor distracts; if anything it adds something extra. Ripe fruit and good overall balance are the order of the day here.

91 points Special Value Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

Zema Estate Cluny from Coonawarra is a beautifully crafted Bordeaux-inspired blend that highlights the region’s signature elegance and depth. Named after Cluny, the birthplace of the Zema family patriarch in Italy, this wine embodies a blend of tradition, family heritage, and the unique terroir of Coonawarra’s renowned terra rossa soils. Established in 1982, Zema Estate has become synonymous with high-quality, expressive wines that capture the essence of Coonawarra, and Cluny is a prime example. The blend varies each vintage but typically features Cabernet Sauvignon as the backbone, complemented by Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec, each contributing layers of complexity, structure, and refined tannins.

Under the guidance of the Zema family, winemaking is handled with meticulous care and respect for traditional methods. Handpicked fruit is fermented in small open fermenters, preserving the character of each grape variety. The wine is then aged in a mix of French and American oak barrels, which adds complexity while allowing the vibrant fruit flavors to remain at the forefront. The Zema family’s sustainable viticulture practices ensure that each vintage speaks authentically of its origins, with minimal intervention allowing the wine to develop naturally.

The result is a wine with rich aromas of blackcurrant, dark plum, and a touch of bay leaf and cedar, hallmarks of a classic Bordeaux-style blend. Layers of red and black fruits unfold on the palate, balanced by notes of chocolate, spice, and fine, well-integrated tannins. With a harmonious finish and aging potential, Zema Estate Cluny captures both the sophistication of Coonawarra and the family’s passion for creating wines with a sense of place and tradition.