Ridgemill Estate Black Dog Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

Ridgemill Estate pump out some great wines on the Granite Belt in Queensland. A focus from winemaker Peter McGlashen on alternate varietals has armed him with a stable of some very classy pieces of work. Mainstream wines are still a key component of the winery, as this wine and the Pedigree Chardonnay will testify.

Now, about the Black Dog...
Twelve months in French and American oak and spends a further 3 years bottle age on site prior to release. The Black Dog Cabernet is Ridgemill's premium brand. The top dog if you will!

Dark appearance with a slighter brightish hue. The nose dishes up dark cherries and some minty aromas, with charred roasted peppers. Yum!
Dark fruits litter the palate, and after a couple of days being open, the wine is still humming along beautifully. Big juicy fruit is smashing and the oak is entwined perfectly (14% abv). The double fermented skins add great impact here (see comment below). The finish is delicate and long with juicy tannins ready to cut through a hearty piece of meat.

Winemaker Peter McGlashan's comments: 
"I believe that it is a classic cool climate Cabernet with all the marks of the Granite Belt. The Black Dog was fermented in two parcels. Skins from the first used to inoculate the second (double fermented skins) which gives good structure."

If in the area, definitely pop in or check the website for purchase details.