2021 Oakridge Original Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Yarra Valley

One of only two wines (the other being the Horst Riesling) that Oakridge makes from the original 1978-planted Wandin vineyard. Oakridge has taken the fruit from the site since 2017 and purchased the vineyard outright in ’21. Matured for 15 months in French barriques (35% new). A bright, medium deep crimson purple. Fragrant with aromas of cassis, violets, hawthorn and cedar. Fine-boned and elegant, but not lacking concentration, there's an old-vine creaminess on the mid-palate. While the wine's very fine-grained and gently chewy tannins will ensure this can be cellared for a decade (or probably two), no one who opens a bottle or two along the way will be disappointed.

97 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.au

Oakridge Original Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is a standout example of how the Yarra Valley can take a traditionally bold variety and give it a distinctly cool-climate finesse. Winemaker David Bicknell has long been admired for his precision and ability to coax elegance and purity from fruit grown in this region, and the Original Vineyard wines are his most site-specific expressions.

The vineyard, planted on the valley floor with gravelly clay loams, is ideally suited to Cabernet. The cooler nights and long growing season allow the grapes to ripen slowly, building deep flavour while retaining freshness and fine tannin structure. The wine opens with classic Cabernet aromatics of cassis, blackcurrant leaf, and graphite, layered with tobacco, cedar, and subtle violet florals. On the palate it is medium-bodied yet commanding, balancing dark berry fruit with savoury notes and a persistent line of acidity that speaks to the vineyard’s terroir. Fine, chalky tannins give it a structure that promises graceful evolution in the cellar over 10 to 15 years.

Pair it with slow-cooked lamb shoulder, chargrilled venison, or porcini mushroom ragù. Its balance of fruit and savoury character makes it a versatile partner to both robust meats and refined earthy dishes.