Some Cabernet Sauvignon from Australia

[wondersofwine]

2000 Henry's Drive Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Padthaway, Australia
14% alcohol
Makers: Sparky and Sarah Marquis
Dark purple color and opaque.
Nose offered mature notes of black fruits and cedar and anise. (Label speaks of plummy and leafy aromas and I can see that also if you are considering dark-skinned plums.) Flavors also reflect a subtle touch of roast coffee although black fruits predominate. Generous color and flavor extraction. Avoids any greenness. Bold enough to pair with roast lamb or grilled steak. I decided some time ago that I like the Henry's Drive Cabernet Sauvignon better than the Shiraz.

2001 Henry's Drive Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon
14.5% alcohol
Somewhat similar to the 2000 vintage. Half a per cent higher in alcohol. I liked the 2000 slightly better but that could be because an extra year of aging brought it to its peak. The 2001 seems a little lighter and younger and perhaps less plummy.