The 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with a tiny amount of Petit Verdot and aged 13 months in French oak, 20% new. Possessing a deep garnet-purple color it gives aromas of minty cassis with a touch of dark chocolate and cardamom. Medium to high acid and a medium level of very fine tannins compose a good backbone for the concentrated full body. The finish is long and minty. Consider drinking it now though it’ll undoubtedly fan-out in a year or two and continue to 2018+. Among the pioneering Margaret River vineyards, Hay Shed Hill’s original vines were established in the early 1970s. The Morrisons purchased the property in 1989 and developed it into a very respectable 18 hectare estate. They sold it in 2000 to a wine investment group after which focus and quality went through a difficult patch. Winemaker Michael Kerrigan took over the property in December, 2006 and set about restoring the original vineyard’s glory. His emphasis is on producing purely 100% estate grown wines. With four vintages now under his belt, the impressive fruits of his labor are demonstrated in this line-up. Importer: The Country Vintner; www.countryvintner.com.au

Distinctly herbal, with enough ripe, generous cherry and spice flavor to bring it into balance. Drink now through 2013. 700 cases made, 160 cases imported.??–HS??Region: Australia / Western Australia / Margaret River Select to Add

5 A relatively full-bodied Margaret River Cabernet, Hay Shed Hill’s 2008 features velvety tannins and a lively mix of cassis, mint and cedar. Although approachable now, it should age well through at least 2018.——J.C.(7/1/2011)—— 91