2021 Parker Estate Cool Climate Cabernet Sauvignon, Coonawarra

The great grape of Coonawarra from a very fine vintage gives us a wine which promises much. Sourced from a number of sites around the region, they use a Pellenc Select Harvester to pick the grapes – this nifty piece of equipment can destem the grapes in the vineyard, giving the winemaker immediate access to perfect berries. Dark maroon, there is an earthy note here on the nose with blackfruits, plums, cedar, tobacco leaves and cold tea. We move to more chocolatey notes on the palate. Silky tannins but they provide deceptive grip here and promote excellent length. This wine has a little more complexity and long term structure than others in this range. It is terrific value and should age and improve over the next eight years. Expect the score to go even higher over that period.

92 points Ken Gargett Winepilot

From the famed terra rossa strip of Coonawarra, Parker Estate Cool Climate Cabernet Sauvignon delivers one of the region’s great value expressions of classic Cabernet. Established by John Parker in the 1980s, the estate quickly earned a reputation for producing structured, ageworthy wines from its prime vineyard holdings. The cool maritime influence and limestone rich soils of Coonawarra allow Cabernet to develop intense cassis character alongside fine tannins and natural balance, making this a standout at the price.

A deep ruby garnet with purple flashes fills the glass. Aromas open with blackcurrant, dark cherry and plum layered with mint, cedar, dried herbs and a touch of dark chocolate. There is a fresh, lifted edge that keeps the wine lively and inviting.

The palate is medium to full bodied and beautifully structured, delivering ripe cassis and black fruit framed by fine tannins and bright acidity. Notes of liquorice, tobacco and subtle oak spice build through the mid palate, leading to a long, savoury finish that feels both polished and approachable. Drinking well now, this Cabernet will continue to evolve over eight to twelve years, gaining additional depth and complexity. At this level, it seriously overdelivers, one of those bottles that makes you question why you would spend more.

Chargrilled steak with chimichurri, smoky beef skewers, or a rich lentil and herb dish shared generously across the table. A spin of Bruce Springsteen Nebraska or something classic from Fleetwood Mac, even a touch of Beethoven later in the night, the wine bringing structure, warmth and a bit of quiet swagger to the evening.