Thorn Clarke 2002 Sandpiper Cabernet Sauvignon Jan 04

Bouquet initially showed some VA and as it was tight and clean it was hard to see what it was hiding. Tannins are smooth, acid is balanced but unobtrusive and if anything stands out as far as the structure is concerned it’s the fruit (no discernable oak.) It’s well made; the wine has a pleasant mouth feel and has been constructed for early consumption. Mid weight, the fruit is ripe, savoury and reasonably rich, typical of a Cabernet Sauvignon in flavour with dark berry, lots of mint, some chocolate and lingering leafy tobacco. There are a lot are green flavours in this wine and although they are ripe, they may well be from young vines.

Rated as Agreeable with *** for value (OK for $15), it’s an easy drinking bistro wine.