Best’s Great Western Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Best’s is one of the oldest (and still classically styled) producers in Australia’s Great Western (a region that is now called Grampians, located in Western Victoria, near Melbourne). Founded in 1866, Best’s and Seppelt are the only two surviving wineries from the gold rush in the region in the 19th century. They are famous for a plot of 130 year old Shiraz vines (bottled in their Thomson Family Shiraz), but are quite respected for the rest of their range as well.
This wine is holding up very well with 13 years of age. It is a classic Victorian Cabernet, meaning herbal and bright. This was probably quite fruity when young as the fruit still lives, though now is in harmony with the secondary notes of tobacco and leaves. If you like riper Cabernet, this wine may sit slightly on the green side for you, but for my palate it was in superb balance.
Marquis Wine Cellars found a stash of this wine in the Province and brought it in to their store at a great price. I highly recommend you give it a try.
Very Good+
$40 at Marquis Wine Cellars and Highly Recommended Value
Trevor
February 19, 2014
Not to be confused with Best Western’s Cabernet Sauvignon, which is less good.
Shea
February 19, 2014
While I have not had the opportunity to sample that tipple, I take your word :).
David J Cooper
February 20, 2014
I find the Best Western Cabernet superior to the Embassy Suites Merlot.
Henry
February 24, 2014
Great to see a review of a wine from my favorite Aussie producer. Agree completely about the comment on ripeness, also applies to their Shiraz. Had a 1984 Hermitage (now the Bin 0) last year that was a real treat. Also do a 100% Pinot Meniur (old & new vine). I believe the old vine version draws from the oldest known continously producing vines of Pinot Meunier known. Living history that is on my list of “must visit” wineries.
Henry