Gaia 2011, Grosset

Jeffrey Grosset is best known for his amazing Rieslings but he can turn his hand to World class reds as well; this is regarded as one of Australia’s best Cabernet blends.

Planted at 570 metres, at the highest point of the Clare Valley, the Gaia vineyard is a rocky, isolated, wind-swept two hectare block close planted by Grosset in 1986. From Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, this is a powerful, brooding red.

The 2011 Gaia provides a delicious example of what can be achieved in a cooler, more European season. Bursting with a fleshy immediacy, bright and ripe yet showing classic Grosset restraint, this is a satisfying drink. With lively brambly aromas, blackcurrant and black plum flavours, the wine is dense with refined power yet almost juicy. It has the structure and silky tannins to age as Gaias do. There’s a touch of the plushness of the 2009 with a slightly leaner frame: so drink some bottles early for the youthful pleasure they will give and save some to savour the mature Gaia experience.

Drink with steak, roasts of all types, big game dishes.