2019 Oakdene Bernard's Cabernets

Appearance
Mid ruby in colour

Bouquet
Complex aromas of black cherry, dark plum, dried flowers, and cedar oak.

Palate
Mid-weighted palate, dominated by juicy red and black fruit notes, and a refreshing tobacco leaf edge. Balanced by a solid tannin backbone, fresh acidity, and elegant, classic, bright red fruit characters.

Fermentation
Hand harvested fruit was destemmed, crushed then soaked for 5 days prior to fermentation using wild yeast in small open vats peaking at 28 degrees with 7 days maceration on skins post ferment. Pressed to barrel for malolactic fermentation, and matured in French oak barriques (30% new) for 16 months, and bottled in August 2020.

Conclusion
Drink now or cellar for 5 to 12 years.

Blend & Clones
66% Merlot Q45-14, 8R
26% Cabernet Franc 1334
8% Cabernet Sauvignon CW44

RATINGS & REVIEWS

89 Points, Jeni Port,  Halliday Wine Companion - 'A blend of merlot (66%), cabernet franc (30%), cabernet sauvignon (8%). Making the most of a challenging vintage and an early picking with an upfront young blend, with early drinking on its mind. It's all about the fruit here, black cherry, plum with some attractive dried flower florals and brown spice. The plush, sweet-berried fruits have prominence, cabernet sauvignon seems reserved for the solid backbone. It works well'.

87 Points, Huon Hooke, The Real Review - 'Ruby with brick-red tints in the developed colour; the bouquet has meaty development, some cocoa powder notes and some leafy/tobacco nuances. The palate has fairly prominent acidity and sinewy texture'.