Joshua Cooper 2024 Bendigo Cabernet Sauvignon ‘Blanche Barkley Old Vines’

"We are tasting these wines and Josh opines that the Blanche Barkley often appears as the ‘little brother’ of the Balgownie Old Vines. I only partly subscribe. Immensely alluring, the 2024 Blanche Barkley is redolent of sage and tarragon upfront, with black cherry and cherry liqueur coalescing behind. There are hints of faint mineral ores in the background. Medium-bodied, fresh, and with good drive, the palate here is elegant with fine tannins. Cherry repeats, along with fresh blackberry, those deeper-pitched herbs in including some marjoram and oregano, mineral nuances, and bitter dark chocolate. The close is sweet-fruited and surprisingly sensual." - David