2005 Howard Park 'Abercrombie' Cabernet Sauvignon Tasting Notes

The winter leading up to the 2005 vintage was much drier than usual, leading to low soil moisture levels as buds burst at the start of the growing season.  As a result, fruit set was lower than expected and the berries tended to be a little smaller than normal with greater intensity of fruit flavour.  The dry conditions prevailed in both the Margaret River and Great Southern regions for the rest of a relatively cool growing season, with the exception of some heavy rainfall in mid February and at the end of March.  Fortunately, this rain caused little damage to the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes and allowed for full colour and flavour development prior to picking.

The fruit was hand picked at optimal maturity and fermented in open stainless steel vats.  The wines were pumped over twice a day to obtain a balance extraction of colour, tannin and flavour development.  The structure of both the Margaret River and Great Southern components allowed for extended maceration of the wines on skins once alcoholic fermentation was complete.  Two weeks later, the wines were pressed and racked to 100% French oak barriques for maturation prior to bottling.

The 2005 Howard Park Cabernet Sauvignon is deep red in colour with a youthful vibrancy.  The nose is filled with ripe cassis, roasted tomatoes, and hints of fresh Cuban cigars representing each distinctive component of the harmonious Great Southern and Margaret River blend.  On the palate, the Great Southern fruit parcels provide the structural backbone to the wine while the Margaret River component lifts the aromatics of the wine adding depth and complexity.  The palate is layered and textured with undertones of vanillin and savoury French oak, leading to a structured finish with elegance and poise.