Wynns Coonawarra Estate V&A Lane Cabernet Shiraz 2016

The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards from V&A Lane have been important contributors to Wynns’ top wines for many years. However this area is also gaining a reputation for a great Shiraz and a marriage of the two varieties is a part of Wynns history, going back to its earliest blends.

Co-fermentation of the two varieties creates a rich and textured style, with unique tannin structure. Targeting a long skin soak takes the naturally rich fruit into savoury and complex territory. Dark brambly fruits are layered with smoky black tea fragrances and black spices. Velvety tannin creates depth and is defined by crisp acidity and beautiful line, leaving the palate full and long with a smoky gravelly finish.

A very warm and dry spring led to early flowering, veraison and harvest. The warm November temperatures were ideal for good berry set necessitating extensive green harvest (thinning) for quality. The grape ripening months of February and March were influenced by a cold “upwelling” off the coast but overall, a warmer- than-average Coonawarra vintage. We describe our 2016 wines as being at the “fuller” end of our long-term Wynns Coonawarra flavour and style spectrum.