Houghton C.W. Ferguson Cabernet Malbec 2007

[Waiters Friend]

G'day

Last time I commented on this wine (in 2010) I wrote "full on blackcurrant and raspberry with a firm and full mouthfeel and utterly in balance." I then managed to pick up a half dozen at 25% off retail.

6 years time has seen plenty of development. Red purple in colour. The blackcurrant and raspberry are still present, but starting to be overtaken by secondaries: leather, cedary oak, and surprisingly, some violets. The palate is full bodied, tannins are moderating and integrating, and there's a good blend of fruit and acid across the front and mid palate. Long finish, and a slight alcoholic heat.

Maybe the balance has shifted a little, but this is still a very good wine. I should drink the last couple of bottles over the next 2-3, and I have just bought a half dozen of the 2012 to supplement it. Worth a go.

Cheers
Allan

[Waiters Friend]

"I should drink the last couple of bottles over the next 2-3". Isn't it amazing how I seem to ignore my own advice?

I've opened my second-last bottle of this tonight (decanted immediately before pouring), after ignoring them for years. The colour hasn't shifted greatly since 2016, and there's sill primary fruit evident. In fact, the majority of the 2016 tasting note still applies, although tannins and oak are now fully integrated, and the alcohol heat has disappeared. Still in good nick, and the last bottle doesn't have to be consumed soon.

This makes me appreciate the Forum as a resource, to remind me how I described wines in years gone past, and giving the ability to post multiple impressions over time of the same wine. Good onya Auswine Forum!

Cheers
Allan

[Ian S]

well said!