Dappled Tradition Cabernets 2024

Shaun Crinion has been on a mission to make Yarra Valley Cabernet cool again, and this wine says to us that's 100% on the right on track. The Tradition Cabernets comes from a single vineyard at Steels Creek, planted in 1981 and farmed by grower Simon Peirce. The site sits in one of the warmer corners of the Yarra, giving Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc the chance to ripen fully while keeping their natural perfume and brightness.

The 2024 blend is 68% Cabernet Sauvignon and 32% Cabernet Franc, with 20% whole bunches in the ferment for lift and complexity. It was fermented with wild yeasts and aged for 18 months in old French oak, keeping the focus firmly on the fruit.

The result is wonderfully aromatic, showing classic blackcurrant, violets and a touch of spice, with a palate that’s all pure fruit and freshness. It has the structure you’d expect from Cabernet, but it moves lightly, shaped more by acidity than oak.

It's a delicious, elegant and typically seamless Dappled wine, and as always from Shaun Crinion, tremendous value. Very limited production, so get in quick.