Since its first release in 1988, the name Parker Coonawarra has represented outstanding quality, longevity and elegance from the region. Based in the very southern end of the Terra Rossa strip, the wines have always embodied a fine, long-lived, classic style. The Hesketh family became the custodians of the vision for Parker in 2013, and have continued with these ideals. The wines offer an exceptional insight into why the Coonawarra region became famous for powerful yet delicious cabernet. This includes a Langton's classification for the flagship First Growth bottling.
Parker Coonawarra Estate First Growth 2018
Medium deep colour, Fragrant and evolved blackcurrant, blackberry, cedar/cigar box, hint tobacco leaf aromas with vanilla, toasted almond, Turkish Delight notes. Well concentrated palate with plentiful blackcurrant, blackberry mulberry fruits, persistent fine grainy tannins, attractive mid-palate volume and lovely crème brulée, marzipan, vanilla oak notes. Finishes chocolatey with excellent mineral length. This is a beautiful Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon with the density, complexity and torque to develop for the long haul. Based on Reynell Selection Cabernet Sauvignon and aged in new French oak for 18 months. The buoyant fruit and balanced structure makes it easy to drink, but its best years are ahead. Drink 2025-2045 14.5% alc 98 points
Rating: 98 Points
Source: Andrew Caillard MW, Vintage Journal
Parker Coonawarra Estate First Growth 2018
From the estate-owned Abbey vineyard. Left 35 days on skins, matured for 18 months in French oak (90% new). As true to Coonawarra for its structure, density and weight, as it is to cabernet for its cassis, blackberries and spice. This is voluminous, expansive, and eminently classy, with a pedigree of fruit that veritably floods the palate with flavour. It endures long into the finish, telling us what we need to know about its capacity for ageing. The tannins too are expertly crafted, countersunk into the fruit, and at no point intrusive to the experience.
Rating: 97 Points, Special Value
Source: Erin Larkin, Halliday Wine Companion
