Ridgemill Estate 'Black Dog' Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

"This black dog is out of control
My mouth is so dry
My eyes are shut tightThere's a black dog a coming tonight"

~ Manic Street Preachers, Black Dog On My Shoulder

"I wish I could have 2005 again" quips winemaker Peter McGlashan, "the chance to apply  what I've learned since, to what was a stunning vintage". The vintage in question was 2005, a cracker by all accounts, the first vintage where wines were produced under the Ridgemill Estate name.

At ten years old this was still throwing a fair bouquet of primary fruit: black cherry, cassis - a medley if you like - and held up over 24-48 hours. Background hints of black licorice strands add an edge, not dominant, just enough to be present.

Medium bodied, fruit flows to the palate. With time the wine held its structure, powder-fine tannin and acid inherent, fruit subsiding with that time.

Good presence, residual tannin, gentle and persistent length. Would suggest easily another five years in reserve, pushing ten. If only anybody had some left. 92

Tasted on: Saturday 28th February, a Flower day
Source: Shared with the winemaker at dinner
Price: $ n/a
Alcohol: 14%
Closure: Screwcap
Website: http://ridgemillestate.com/

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