In Celebration of 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon

Whilst celebrated globally as one of the truly great noble grape varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon is unfortunately having a bit of a tough time of it in Australia at the moment.
A generation ago, here in Australia the argument for superiority was a head-to-head between Shiraz and Cabernet; today the battle sits squarely between Shiraz and Pinot Noir (and as friends of Elderton know - friends don’t let friends drink Pinot!!).

“Year in, year out, this is always one of the Barossa’s most exciting Cabernets and this latest release is no different. Stellar stuff. 95 Points.”
Ken Gargett, Wine Pilot

Whilst internationally it is the most planted of all varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon is in third place in Australia, and falling. This certainly has been the case here in the Barossa, with many growers favouring varieties that are more in demand and easier to grow.

At Elderton, the Ashmead family love Cabernet, and it is dear to the whole team due to the success and deliciousness of the Cabernet based wines that we make. Winning the Jimmy Watson for our estate Cabernet from the 1992 vintage, has ensured that generations of Elderton fans have been able to enjoy our ripe and delicious estate grown Cabernets and Cabernet blends.

“Bloody Good. 96 Points.” Andrew Caillard MW, The Vintage Journal

It is also why we were confident in saving a struggling old vine Cabernet block on the Elderton Nuriootpa Estate that was planted in 1944, knowing that people would trust us to make not only one of the best Cabernets in the Barossa – but one of the best Australia-wide.

2023 is another great release of this wine, and whilst the vintage had some challenges through a greater than average wet season, the 2023 Ashmead still excelled. Careful attention to picking the best bunches and only the best barrels, we know from similar tricky vintages like 2000 and 2007 that this wine will reward those that have the patience to wait for prime drinking in 8+ years from now.

Made in very small quantities, we hope you do not miss out on this year’s celebration of Cabernet. Available online or in Cellar Door. Throughout September, visit Cellar Door to taste Command and Ashmead (not generally on tasting.)