2018 Icon 'Lionel Samson' Cabernet Sauvignon

With only 1113 bottles made and the unknown of when another exceptional vintage will arrive, we are only selling via the Mount Barker Cellar Door online or by contacting wine@plantagenetwines.com direct. 

With maturation in French oak barriques for 18 months and the spectacular vintage that preceded it, an incredibly precise and well-composed palate has resulted. Aromas of brambled fruits evolve to reveal cassis, mulberry, bay leaf, olive tapenade, and tobacco, creating a touch of the old-world character. The palate has complexity, poise and grace. 

Arising from the 'Wyjp Vineyard' first planted in 1971, this wine forms our story and has given rise to its future. 

*Icon Range not available for club membership discounts - this remarkable wine has been released from the exceptional vintage that was 2018. 

98 Points - Ray Jordan, The West 'Red Revival' August 2021

"The intention is that this wine will only be released from the best vintages and 2018 was certainly one of the very best. Sourced from the Wyjup vineyard planted in 1971. Leafy, wild fruit aromas with a mix of bay leaf and meaty tobacco and black olive. It's compelling stuff from the outset. The palate has excellent structure, based on the deeply concentrated medium to full-bodied fruit and supported with slick, fine tannins and a neat oak addition. A regal and polished cabernet worthy of a first release."

97 Points (Special Value) - Erin Larkin, 2022 Halliday Awards, August 2021

"First release of this premium cabernet, named after one of the founders Lionel Samson. Fruit is sourced from the Wyjup vineyard, planted in 1971. Salted cassis and blackberry pie on the nose and palate. This is supple and elegant and although concentrated, it doesn't have the palate weight of the shiraz. This is not a bad thing, just interesting. Elegance and longevity live here side by side. A masterful first release, and quite delicious now or in decades to come."