2022 Koerner Classic

Koerner has spent the last decade completely reshaping how we look at the Clare Valley. Instead of heavy-handed extraction and oak clout, Damon Koerner shoots for freshness and drinkability without sacrificing structural integrity. His Classic Red is a clear nod to the legendary red soil Cabernets of iconic neighbours like Wendouree, but reimagined with a lighter, modern touch.

Sourced from the Vivian Vineyard in Watervale, this sits on classic terra rossa clay over limestone. The bulk of the blend is 1998-planted Cabernet Sauvignon, spiced up with a tiny splash of Sciacarello to bring a bright, crunchy lift. Fermented on skins in open-top steel tanks and matured in thick-staved French oak demi-muids, it gets extended bottle age at the winery so it arrives with its elbows neatly tucked in.

Expect dark cassis, purple blossoms and an earthy graphite grip underneath. The palate hits with real structural drive, framed by fine-grained, chalky tannins and a cool mineral vein that keeps the fruit running straight down the line. We reckon this is on par with his best releases yet.

95 points
"It feels like a future icon and evokes a thought to visit your butcher, call your mate, get the steaks on a plate and decant this wine ceremoniously."
- Katrina Butler (Halliday Wine Companion)