Lime Cave Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

The 2023 vintage will be remembered by many as a challenging year in the vineyard, especially during Spring with regular rain events causing increased disease pressure.  Fortunately, McLaren Vale’s vicinity to the ocean prevailed with sea breezes and lower rainfall than other regions reducing the mildew outbreaks.  The cool spring gave way to a mild summer and long ripening period which allowed fruit to reach optimum ripeness with lower alcohol levels.  Vintage began 2-3 weeks later than a ‘normal’ vintage, with yields lower than average.  The slow ripening and cool temperatures provided perfect natural acidity in whites with fantastic colour in reds.

Harvested from two old Cabernet vineyards on the Maxwell property. Picked on the same day, vinified in small 2T open fermenters, with fermentation finishing after 8-10 days. Kept on skins for a further 8-10 days to build tannin and structure.