2021 The Peake Cabernet Shiraz
Estimated value
Buying options
Tasting notes
The 2021 season in South Australia was a ripper—long, mild, free from viticultural disaster or major risk—and the best wines show superb balance and longevity. This 2021 The Peake Cabernet Shiraz comprises 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Shiraz, and this was a result of discussions between winemaker Chris Carpenter and late Yangarra winemaker Pete Fraser—the Cabernet just looked so good in this season. The wine shows immense power and balance, with mineral freshness, graphite tannins and great length. It shows the best of the season. This has grown substantially since I last tasted it, and most certainly for the better. My initial assessment noted that the tannins are fresh and ashy, making for a chewy, pliable sort of finish, and this remains relevant again here today. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
Critic scores
Average Score
Erin Larkin, Wine Advocate
Angus Hughson, Vinous
More reviews and scores
All crafted from 1971-planted vineyards, the 2021 The Peake is an incredibly unique style of the classic Australian Cabernet Shiraz blend. It is beautifully understated, and aromas tease with smoked meats, blackcurrant and gravel with a faint touch of fresh asphalt. It is beautifully composed with a savory, dark, earth-scented palate underpinned by well-pitched, firm tannins, which all come together over an ethereal and immaculately balanced finish. A ground-breaking modern Australian style that is worth tracking down.
A joint effort from Chris Carpenter and Pete Fraser. Majority cabernet (60%) providing aromas of cassis, mint, rolled sage, tapenade and bay leaf over shiraz\'s warmer chord below. A rich wine of immaculate tannic cladding, attesting to optimal fruit quality and a deft hand. Like alloyed ballbearings running through the mouth. The mocha-cedar of the oak is salubrious of feel rather than obtuse or excessive. Maritime freshness, a classy undercarriage infusing energy while towing impressive length. This is a very classy wine that sets the bar very high for the quintessential home blend. Drink from 2024 onwards. Screw cap.