Dandelion Vineyards, Pride of the Fleurieu Cabernet Sauvignon 2008

BACKGROUND
Dandelion Vineyards are proven plantings that have stood the test of time. Our wish is to nurture the unique character of these vineyards and express their terroir in our wines. To capture variety, vintage and vineyard requires and enlightened approach. “When I see a weed I see the Devil is an old grower's mantra, but we encourage the humble Dandelion amongst the vines as they suppress winter weeds, provide mulch in summer, and their Wishing Clocks to blow off in Spring.”

Dandelion Vineyards is a unique fusion of vineyards and vignerons. Our wines represent decades of experience, blending the fruit of our heirloom vineyards with the finest traditions of artisan winemaking.

WINEMAKING
This Pride of the Fleurieu Cabernet was grown in the family's pride and joy. With a prime position overlooking the Finniss River wetlands, Stranger's Reach vineyard is cooled by the maritime influence of the Great Southern Ocean and nearby Lake Alexandrina.

Deep alluvial soils and low rainfall help the tough cabernet vines produce rich flavours in their berries as they strive to 'populate or perish'. Selected bunches were hand picked by family and friends on March 21st and gently crushed to open fermenters. After 10 days fermentation the wine was then basket pressed into new and used French and Bulgarian oak barriques for 16 months maturation and then bottled without filtration or fining, to capture the essence of the vineyard.

Dandelion Vineyard's Pride is ready to drink and will reward cellaring and decanting.

TASTING NOTES
An intense, deep-purple with bright edges. A good indication as to what is to follow. Scented blueberries and hints of blackcurrants over fruitcake like ripe redolent red fruits and spicy cedar, blackberries and cream. Rich, deep, full-flavoured, blueberry, plums and red berry flavours. Cedar spice and classic Cabernet tannin softened by smooth mouth-filling fruit before a really extended finish.

Other Vintages
2007 | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 |

DRINK
Certainly great to drink now but will reward cellaring for up 5 to 10 years. This wine will stand up to practically any full-flavoured dish.

WINEMAKER
Elena Brooks BSc (Oneology) Adelaide

SPECIFICS
Alcohol: 13.5%
TA: 6.6g/L
pH: 3.48
RS: < 3.3g/L

Latitude 35°24’23” South
Longitude 138°49’26” East
Altitude 80 Feet = 25 Metres

View Dandelion Vineyards in a larger map

Wish you were here. Carl Lindner & Brad Rey, Vignerons, Zar Brooks, Typist, Elena Brooks, Winemaker