Devil's Lair '02

[brappy]

Didn't know if I should post this here or in the Cab section but I guess it doesn't really matter.

79% Cab 21% merlot from the Margaret River, Western Australia.

Nose has red cherry fruit along with cocoa, and a touch of espresso and eucalyptus. The palate has much of the same with the fruit being a bit more pronounced. The mid palate is medium heavy. The tannins in the finish are sweet and luscious. The finish is outstanding demanding one more taste.... every time.

I don't know how much of this is made or is available, but I highly suggest getting this if you run across it.

Even a year ago, I would have suggested skipping this part of Australia except for some of the Chardonnays which in a blind tasting could be mistaken for Grand Cru white Burgundies. I'm now more convinced the Cabernets are great but need bottle age before even attempting them. The greeness in most of the cabs from this area is such a turn-off when the wines are young. That characteristic simply overpowers the fruit. But a few years later, this seems to melt, or mix, or blend with the wine harmoniously. It then produces this great lusciious age potential wine I'm enjoying at the moment.

Another Cab from this area off the top of my head is Vasse Felix. This one is actually OK when young but positively stunning when mature. I believe I still have a couple of the '93s.

Once again, a lesson in humility. Never say "Never" in the world of wine.

mark

[Glass_A_Day]

We don't have much Aussie cab in the cellar except for a 99 Moss Wood that should be about ready. Maybe it's time to crack it or better yet, bring it to the offline. Also in the cellar is an Aussie Merlot from Haan. Could be a interesting pair. I have always stuck with Shiraz when buying from Australia, but I guess it's time to explore further. Thanks for the thoughts Mark.