2018 XANADU DJL Cabernet Sauvignon Margaret River

 
Vinous Media’s Josh Raynolds loves this wine! “Deep, glistening ruby. Aromas of cassis, cherry pit and succulent herbs, with a floral nuance in the background. Lively and focused on the palate, offering bitter cherry and dark berry flavors, a spicy nuance, and a touch of smoky minerality. Finishes with solid thrust, even tannins and very good, spicy persistence.” Josh rated it 90 points; said it would drink well through 2028.

The Wine Advocate’s Joe Czerwinski had this to say: “Sourced from four long-term growers, the 2018 DJL Cabernet Sauvignon . . . adds hints of smoke and cocoa to ripe cassis fruit. It's full-bodied, rich and velvety, with a lingering finish. Textbook stuff at a realistic tariff.” He, too, awarded 90 points and noted the wine will drink well through 2025.

James Halliday, the Australian reviewer (James Halliday’s Wine Companion) known for overglowing reviews of his home-town faves, commented: “89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Malbec, 5% Petit Verdot. Grapes are sourced from the Wallcliffe (75%) and Wilyabrup. It offers attractive varietal flavours and has just enough sternness to give you confidence in its future. It tastes of blackcurrant, violet, eucalypt and milk chocolate, everything served in velvety form." His rating? 93 points. James Suckling tossed 92 points on the wine, saying he tasted “An impressively deep array of rich blueberry and herbal aromas here, leading to a supple palate that has such rich blueberry flavors and a gently spicy, smooth-honed and approachable finish. Drink now.”

Most stores are selling this wine in the $18-$20 range. I got mine from Invino for $15/bottle, including shipping!

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