2024 Bowen Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 750mL

It’s been too long since I tasted a Bowen Estate, but after driving past their vineyards (planted in 1972) recently and seeing their expert and neat hand cane-pruning (almost unique in Coonawarra) I thought back to the many times these cabernets (old and young) have given me much enjoyment.

This 2024, made by Emma Bowen in the winery’s 50^th year, is a ripper and will have no trouble ageing for many decades, as Bowen’s easily do.

It’s a classic Coonawarra cab, with the bay leaf, tobacco-pouch, cassis and black cherry characteristics along with a fleshy palate finishing firm and long.

I’m going to put some in my cellar and every time I drink one over coming decades I’m going to toast Emma and her parents Doug and the late Joy Bowen (always so effervescent and caring). By the way, Doug’s first cabernet - the 1975 - is still alive and well!

It’s been scored at 95 by at least a couple of important wine writers.

Randall.