A blend of 78% Cabernet Sauvignon and 22% Shiraz from the Napa, Sonoma, and Paso Robles,this wine spent 16 months in American oak, 40% of which was new and the rest one year old. The cooper was AP John in the Barossa, which was the case for all four wines. All of the Shiraz came from Paso Robles. Gago believes that a Cab/Shiraz blend from these regions works much better than simply a straight Shiraz (Syrah). Perhaps more than any other, this wine shows the links between California and Penfolds. Those special cuttings that were planted in 1998 in Paso Robles were planted at an estate called the Camatta Hills vineyard. The original name for the estate was the Creston “600” Ranch, hence the name for this wine. Penfolds see planting those cuttings as the first leg on the California Collection timeline. What better way to reflect that than by including it in a Cab/Shiraz blend? A powerful style, dark blood-red in color. Black fruits abound here; licorice, black olives, and some oak is still evident. The flavors move to coffee bean, cloves, spices, and dark chocolate. Aromas as though you have just stepped inside your favorite delicatessen on a winter’s morning. Good concentration, excellent length, and firm tannins. Nicely balanced, with a supple texture. Blackberries linger on the finish, which does go into a gentle fade. A solid style, chock-full of flavor. Has a future. | 92