Alkoomi Black Label Frankland River Cabernet Sauvignon 2013

It’s Cabernet day here at Australian Wine Review, which means I really should have some cheddar on hand. Or goose, as a Bordeaux winemaker told me recently. Still haven’t road-tested the claret and goose thing yet though..

Dark purple red; this looks like quite typical Alkoomi Cabernet. There’s cool mint and menthol on the fragrant nose, amidst some cedary, blackcurrant fruit. Curiously, the palate is dry and minty yet warm too, a nod perhaps to some uneven ripeness.

Structurally it has runs on the board, but not quite the balance between fruit, tannins and acid. Close, but no cigar. Drink 2015-2026. 16.5/20, 88/100

Details: 14.3%, Screwcap, $24, Sample
Would I buy it? Not quite.
Buy online: Alkoomi website