Sacred Hill Helmsman Cabernet Merlot 2015

Sam Kim writes "The gratifying bouquet shows blackcurrant, mixed berry compote, cigar box, black olive and cedar aromas, leading to a concentrated and meticulously expressed palate that is richly fruited with seductive savoury nuances. The wine is sophisticated and substantial, brilliantly structured by fine, chalky tannins. Powerful and perfectly proportioned, this is a compelling rendition. From the Gimblett Gravels district, 2015 Helmsman is a blend of 76% cabernet sauvignon, 19% merlot and 5% cabernet franc."

Raymond Chan wrote "Very full, near impenetrable black-hued purple-red colour, a little lighter on the rim, youthful in appearance. The nose is beautifully refined, but very concentrated and intense with subtly penetrating and deep aromas of ripe blackcurrant and blackberry fruit, along with plum and liquorice notes and delicate cassis liqueur elements. Medium-full bodied, the palate has very concentrated and tightly bound, rich and sweet flavours of ripe blackcurrants, blackberries, cassis and liquorice. The fruit has great drive and linearity, and is supported by considerable structure, the tannins very fine-grained and flowery. The acidity lends balance and energy, and the wine carries with great drive and underlying power to a very long and sustained, nuanced finish. The is a wonderfully concentrated and rich Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend with considerable structure, linearity and energy."