My experience with Aussie wines is mostly with Pinot Noirs and Sauvignon Blancs and one exceptional port. I decided to go out on a limb and try a Cabernet Sauvignon unknown to me. At $6.99 I felt as though I was within my level of risk tolerance, so I picked up a bottle of 2008 Bin Select 513 Cabernet Sauvignon from Kalbarri Vineyards of South East Australia.
Originally of French origins, this versatile grape produces exceptional wines around the globe. It's usually medium to full bodied with a fine structure that supports black and red fruit flavors with typical notes of olive, chili and herbs that add complexity.
The label describes this Cab as having "deep red color and rounded flavors of raspberry, plum, black current (sic) and subtle oak." It then suggests a pairing with peppered steak and to "sip slowly." I could get neither my taste buds nor my palate wrapped around this one. It was kind of flat and, since I don't eat peppered steak very often, I tried pairing it with some Australian cheddar cheese on a reduced fat Triscuit. Still, I didn't get that "loving feeling" that I have experienced with other Aussie wines. Overall, I would just buy it as a last resort.
In all fairness Kalbarri's varietals have received recognition from the Wine Enthusiast and Jerry D. Mead's New World International Wine Competition. I will taste and review their other wines in the future.
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