2018 Coppermine Road
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Tasting notes
The 2018 The Coppermine Road Cabernet Sauvignon is from McLaren Vale, and it shows the maritime regionality in the glass, via the varietal inflections of cassis, licorice and dried bay leaf. In the mouth, the fruit is minty, plummy and dark. The tannins really clench the fruit through the middle palate onward—I was about to write that they are "fine and supple," in line with my initial impression, however once a little oxygen is introduced into the mouth, the tannins close up and really constrict the flow of fruit flavor. This is a very firm Cabernet Sauvignon that one suspects could do with a decant, although after 30 minutes in this glass, very little structural relaxation is occurring.
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James Suckling
Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate
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The 2018 The Coppermine Road is a sturdy Cabernet Sauvignon. It showcases a rich vein of intense aromas, including blackcurrant and graphite, with an attractive leafy touch. A firm and reserved palate follows. Drying tannins and cedary oak shadow the fruit a bit. It finishes with some more developed cigar box flavors. This is a solid effort for fans of traditionally styled McLaren Vale dry reds.
The top cabernet selected from low-yielding old-vine heritage-clone material, this has a ripe and richly intense nose with quite pure blackcurrants and blueberries, as well as cedar and gently sappy, leafy elements. Some mint, too. The palate holds a very composed, deeply juicy core with a rich thread of concentrated blueberries, blackcurrants and some iodine. Essence-like concentration and seamless poise. Long tannins. Drink over the next decade or more. Screw cap.