2006 Raidis Estate ‘Billy’ Cabernet Sauvignon

Coonawarra, South Australia

Self-described as being the ‘newest kid’ on the Coonawarra block, Raidis Estate is a new brand to watch for, particularly if they continue to produce wines of the quality of this their first release.  Produced by the Raidis family, the vineyard is still very hands on with low yielding vines being hand pruned Their best fruit is hand selected and picked.  The Billy Cabernet shows vibrancy in colour and texture. 

The care taken with the fruit can be seen in the complexity of the cassis, plum and pepper aromas with a hint of minty vanilla.  In typical Coonawarra style, the tannins are finely structured and the alcohol supports the intense concentration of the fruit.  The blackcurrant and plum fruit flavours are complimented with some nutty spice and earthy savouriness. 

This is a wine showing pleasing balance between fruit intensity and structure and is definitely approachable enough to enjoy now with lamb kleftiko so as not to offend any of the wines namesakes.

Distribution: contact winery for distributors or www.raidis.com.au/Welcome.html

Value: $21.00

© Lisa Johnston October 2009

Wine Diva Wines of the Month, November 2009