Jim Barry 'Cover Drive' Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

On the southern boundary of Coonawarra is the old Penola cricket ground, which first saw a ball bowled in anger and the flashing cover drives of the local champions of 1950. The cricket ground was retired in 1996. The following year, Jim Barry was fortunate to purchase the 30-acre property, which he then planted with Cabernet Sauvignon. Fruit from this vineyard, along with selected parcels of fruit from other family owned Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards in the Clare Valley have been blended to produce a wine that is rich, soft and approachable.

For the 2021 vintage, the nose leads with aromas of fresh tobacco leaf, cassis, boysenberry and spice. Followed by a silk like entry on the palate with super fine, detailed tannin, ripe berried fruits, a hint of tobacco and the classic brambles of Clare Cabernet to finish.

92 Points - Wine Enthusiast

Concentrated blackcurrant and plum aromas rush from the glass, followed by toastier, oak-derived ones like cedar and mocha. It's a big, powerful wine with sculpted tannins and pert acidity. The oak is present but not overwhelming. Pop this in a decanter if drinking any time soon, but should open and settle over the next decade.