2004 Ripper Creek Cabernet Shiraz
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Tasting notes
A blend of equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz that was aged 18 months in 100% used French oak, the 2004 Cabernet/Shiraz Ripper Creek is a big, harmonious, dense purple-colored red displaying a sweet perfume of black and red fruits intermixed with incense, cedar, pepper, and spice. This weighty yet beautifully balanced, elegant, long stunner can be drunk now or cellared for a decade or more. If you haven’t yet noticed, Christian Canute is one of Australia’s finest young mavericks. At the ripe old age of 28, he’s doing work that suggests someone with twice as much experience. Importer: Dan Philips, The Grateful Palate, Oxnard, CA; tel. (888) 472-5283
Critic scores
Average Score
Robert Parker
Josh Raynolds
More reviews and scores
(an equal blend of cabernet sauvignon and shiraz) Dark violet. Ripe, juicy aromas of cherry liqueur and blackcurrant, accented by smoke, candied licorice and espresso. Lush, deep dark fruit flavors show impressive concentration and thrust, with a pretty, sweet note of candied plum developing with air. A note of tangy cherry preserve builds through the finish, which features well-managed tannins and subtle oak spices.