2023 Peter Lehmann VSV Ruediger Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley

Cabernet sauvignon sourced from the Ruediger vineyard to the north of Nuriootpa. Deep magenta/crimson. There's some potency to the opulent blackberry, black cherry and cassis aromas. They are concentrated and uber-pure and cut with hints of mixed spice, licorice, dried herbs, dark chocolate, cedar, tobacco, mahogany and earth. Full bodied and intensely flavoured, the fruit, oak, tannin and acidity all running in sync with a bright energy, deep fruit set and long, lingering finish.

95 points Dave Brookes winecompanion.com.au

Peter Lehmann VSV Ruediger Cabernet Sauvignon is a powerful yet refined Barossa Valley wine, drawn from one of the region’s most revered old vine sites. VSV stands for Very Special Vines, a collection of ancient vineyards tended by growers who have supplied Peter Lehmann for generations. The Ruediger vineyard is a standout within this group, planted decades ago and producing naturally low yields of intensely flavoured fruit.

Barossa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a different beast to its cooler climate cousins. Here, warm days build richness and depth, while the age of the vines and careful viticulture bring balance and structure rather than excess. The soils at Ruediger are typically red brown earth over clay, helping the vines dig deep and regulate vigour, which shows clearly in the wine’s composure.

In the glass, this Cabernet Sauvignon is deep and dark, offering cassis, blackberry and black cherry, layered with cedar, dried herbs, dark chocolate and subtle savoury spice. The palate is full bodied and commanding, yet shaped by fine, mature tannins and a long, structured finish. There is generosity, but also discipline, with everything feeling well judged.

This is a wine made for the table. Slow roasted beef, lamb shoulder, venison, rich stews or aged hard cheeses all sit comfortably alongside its depth and structure. It is equally suited to long, unhurried meals.

Peter Lehmann VSV Ruediger Cabernet Sauvignon is drinking well with time in bottle, but its true strength lies in its ability to age. Expect it to evolve gracefully over fifteen to twenty years, gaining complexity, savoury nuance and softness while retaining its Barossa presence.