Kay Brothers Cuthbert Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Overview
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Complex and elegant aromas of mint, blackberry, cassis, and marzipan. Layers of rich berry fruits are followed by darker flavors of licorice and chocolate on the palate. Fine-textured, chalky tannins and supple minerality linger on the finish. |
Wine Facts
Winemaker Notes
The 2018 vintage began with good winter and early spring rainfall, preparing the vines for the summer ahead. In late spring, the weather began to warm up, and flowering conditions were moderate – but later than most years. The summer was extremely dry and veraison was late, but came on quickly as temperatures rose in late-January. The final ripening period of February and early March continued to be dry. Temperatures were mild, and conditions were ideal for steady ripening and flavor development.
The 2018 vintage is the ninth release of this commemorative wine. The grapes were hand-harvested on March 26th. The grapes were traditionally vinified, using open fermentation for 11 days on skins, and then basket-pressed in the winery’s 1928 press. The wine was matured for 20 months in French Oak hogsheads.
Serving Hints
Decanting prior to serving is recommended. This Cabernet works particularly well with rich dishes such as lamb.
Interesting Facts
Cuthbert “Cud” Kay, the eldest son of Herbert Kay, was born at Amery on the 16th June 1914, 24 years after Herbert & his brother Frederick founded the Kay Brothers Vineyards & Winery. Apart from service in the army during the Second World War, and spending most Sundays on the golf course, Cud’s life was devoted to making rich, full-bodied Amery red wines – the style he always enjoyed.
Producer: Kay Brothers
Region: McLaren Vale
Country: Australia
Wine Composition: 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot `
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 6.8 G/L
Residual Sugar: 1.1 G/L
pH: 3.6
The 2018 vintage began with good winter and early spring rainfall, preparing the vines for the summer ahead. In late spring, the weather began to warm up, and flowering conditions were moderate – but later than most years. The summer was extremely dry and veraison was late, but came on quickly as temperatures rose in late-January. The final ripening period of February and early March continued to be dry. Temperatures were mild, and conditions were ideal for steady ripening and flavor development.
The 2018 vintage is the ninth release of this commemorative wine. The grapes were hand-harvested on March 26th. The grapes were traditionally vinified, using open fermentation for 11 days on skins, and then basket-pressed in the winery’s 1928 press. The wine was matured for 20 months in French Oak hogsheads.
Serving Hints
Decanting prior to serving is recommended. This Cabernet works particularly well with rich dishes such as lamb.
Interesting Facts
Cuthbert “Cud” Kay, the eldest son of Herbert Kay, was born at Amery on the 16th June 1914, 24 years after Herbert & his brother Frederick founded the Kay Brothers Vineyards & Winery. Apart from service in the army during the Second World War, and spending most Sundays on the golf course, Cud’s life was devoted to making rich, full-bodied Amery red wines – the style he always enjoyed.
Producer: Kay Brothers
Region: McLaren Vale
Country: Australia
Wine Composition: 97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot `
Alcohol: 13.5%
Total Acidity: 6.8 G/L
Residual Sugar: 1.1 G/L
pH: 3.6
Press Highlights
2018: 92 Pts - Wine Advocate, Aug 20212017: 94 Pts - Wine Advocate, July 2020
2017: 91 Pts - James Suckling, May 2020
2017: 90 Pts - James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion, Aug 2020
2016: 95 Pts - Wine Advocate,, Sept 2018
2016: 92 Pts - James Suckling, June 2019
2012: 95 Pts - James Halliday - Australian Wine Companion, July 2015
2012: 93 Pts - Wine Enthusiast, Feb 2017
2012: 92 Pts - Vinous, Mar 2016
2012: 91 Pts - Wine Advocate, #220, Aug. 2015
2011: 95 Pts - James Halliday, Australian Wine Companion, July 2014
2011: 90+ Pts - Wine Advocate, 2014