Intense reds from this, the coolest climate in South Australia, owe part of their unique character and finesse to the nine-by-one mile strip of Terra Rosa soil. Terra Rosa, as its name implies, is made up of red earth topsoil over limestone subsoil, both of which have excellent drainage. The deep layer of limestone subsoil gives roots plenty of easy access to the unusually high water table. Thus, the deepest roots in this patch of red earth have year-round access to that precious resource, water.

In the cooler (for Australia) conditions, well to the south of Adelaide and far away from the districts surrounding the Barossa, Cabernet takes on a deep varietal personality with excellent intensity and ripe, fruity, minty flavors. The best examples show exceptional balance and ageability, without the toughness the varietal is known for. The wines tend to show a bit more finesse than their northern cousins. Just as the consumer in search of Shiraz should start with Barossa or McLaren, so should the consumer in search of a distinctive introduction to fine Aussie Cabernet turn to Coonawarra. (Wine/Appellations)