The Auswine Forum

I started with nine of these, picked up at auction a few years ago. They've been remarkable consistent over the years, if not particularly generous...
1995 Chateau Xanadu Cabernet Sauvignon (Margaret River)
Plenty of deep red colour left. There's a whiff of sweet berry fruit while decanting, but actually sniffing the wine deeply bring lots of herbal, capsicum-like aromas to the fore. On the palate it's the tannic structure that dominates, providing an assertive framework way in excess of the not-very-generous vegetal (dare I say unripe?) fruit. Medium weight and length, it does manage to coat the palate fairly evenly. I was expecting it to pick up with the roast for dinner, but even the addition of food didn't really change the picture. Overall, not too bad I guess - I'd be happier with the wine overall if the tannins were a bit more refined - that would make all the difference. Two bottles remaining - perhaps they should have a much longer wait in the interests of science..?

cheers,
Graeme

Thank You Graeme for the heartfelt note. I'm a fan of the Xanadu Cabernet, I believe in the potential of both the standard and the reserve that were released back in the 90's.
This 1995 cabernet is weird one. I've only tasted it years ago, I saw the same shortcomings in it as you but for some reason, it still manages to be a good wine. I'd say, wait an other 4 years, it may transform into something better but if not, it will definitely hold.
Cheers,
Attila