Newton-Forrest ‘Cornerstone’ Gimblett Gravels 2006

Bob Newton and John Forrest’s ‘Cornerstone’ vineyard in the Gimblett Gravels has a pedigree of providing fruit for award winning wines for over a decade. The extremely low yields from the gravel-based soils contribute to the intensity of the fruit. The Newton-Forrest ‘Cornerstone’ Cabernet/Merlot/Malbec has taken a multitude of golds and trophies and this 2006 ‘Cornerstone’ is no exception, awarded gold at this year’s Royal Easter Show Wine Awards. This particular wine was also a star in the recent U.K. comparison, coming in sixth place after the likes of Chateaux Lafite-Rothschild, Angelus and Haut-Brion. A blend of 45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Merlot and 7% Malbec, this was aged 18 months in 80% French and 20% American oak. Blackberries, plums, tobacco and spices feature on this layered, concentrated, but fine textured beauty.  RC Aug 09