Jim Barry The Benbournie Cabernet Sauvignon

Gold. From separate blocks on the Armagh Vineyard planted in '64,10 days on skins, 50% with an additional 2 weeks post-ferment maceration. Elegant wine with tannins and other extract at a low level. Varietal fruit is clear as a day, 13.5% alcohol the key.   Rating: 95

Deep, dark red colour with purple tints and a big, rich, strong bouquet of earthy ironstone and blackberry aromas, a little green herbiness, all details neatly intertwined. A big, bold, ballsy cabernet. The palate is likewise powerful, profound, very full-bodied and dense, with a long carry and masses of assertive tannins. It's very chewy by itself, and ideally needs cellaring. Hearty food recommended.  Rating: 91