I’m back at uni again this week for what should be my last ever on-campus session at Melbourne University’s Dookie campus. It’s fun to think about how far things have come since I first ventured down here over five years ago, even though the campus itself is even more of a creaking relic than when I started (some things change, some things just get a bit more ragged).
I’m down here for what is a very entry level subject (Australia in the Wine World if you’re keeping score) that I really wasn’t sure would be like, largely as going over old ground can be torture.
But this doesn’t feel that way. Perhaps it is because I’ve only got a few more days until my big 2015 Euro adventure, yet I think it is more than that.
Rather, I think it is just fun to be learning again. I don’t need a touch up on basic wine concepts, but to watch how someone else breaks down the bullshit language and esoterica of wine has been invaluable, particularly now that I do a bit of teaching myself. I’m learning about learning, if that makes sense.
Further, it’s enjoyable just to break out of my normal cycle. Dookie is in the middle of nowhere so we all stay on campus and it just feels like school camp. But for grownups.
A school camp, in the country, with a solid hill to run up, minimal pressure to perform and no shortage of drinkable wines flowing like water. Enjoyable times.
Speaking of, this red came up in tastings today and stuck out because its the best Bowen Cabernet I’ve had in years.
Bowen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
It’s been a while between Bowen Cabernets for me, but this is a standout. No nostalgia either, as this looked quite modern. Notably aromatic, this all dark berries in a surprisingly fragrant form. The palate is typically Bowen generous, but without excess ripeness, just a long, powdery finish. High quality, riper styled Coonawarra Cabernet that doesn’t go over the top. 18.5/20, 94/100
2 Comments
Hello Andrew,
"riper styled Coonawarra Cabernet"
Could you explain this in a little more detail please kind sir?
Thanks
Colin r
Yes! I see this as a more fuller, richer styled of Coonawarra Cab with slightly higher alcohol indicative of fruit picked that little riper. It means more black fruits and viscosity and less of that Coonawarra mint and leafiness.