Review: 2003 Tulum Cabernet Sauvignon

The low-down: The Mornington Peninsula is an hours drive south of Melbourne. The region's wine industry only developed in the 1970s - relatively recently compared to other established Aussie regions. Chardonnay and pinot noir are mostly planted but there are pockets of riesling, cabernet sauvignon and malbec.

Willow Creek Vineyards, with 18 ha under vine, was established in 1988 although the original homestead and cattle farm dates back to 1876. The estate was acquired in 2013 by the Li family who have interests in hospitality in China. They intend to develop a 40 room boutique hotel on-site.

The take: On appearance, auburn red, low viscosity, very dark and opaque, with an orange edge that you expect with 10 year+ old wines. On the nose, the bouquet consists of sour fruits, with a dusty, spicy, gamey character. Initially a touch too acidic on the attack and too fast a finish - however this settles down with time. The blend neatly balances tannins, chalk, oak and blackcurrant - although a little overripe for our liking.

In closing: Balanced, pleasant, a little plain though.

Rating: 7.5 out of 10.

Fact corner:

Country: Australia

Region: Mornington Peninsula

Producer: Willow Creek Vineyard

Vintage: 2003

Grape: Cabernet sauvignon

Alcohol content: 14.0%

Serving temperature: n/a

Price range: Mid-range

#photo #review #red #australia #midrange #cabsav #2003 #658outof10