The Maitre D' 2020 is a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon from Mollydooker’s Lefty Series, named after Sparky, who started out as a left-handed waiter. This wine packs dense flavors of tobacco, cassis, dark chocolate, and blackberry, with a hint of herbaceousness adding complexity. With 15.5% alcohol and well-integrated oak, it’s rich, smooth, and structured—perfect for fans of bold Aussie Cabs.

The Wine Advocate | RP 87
Published: Apr 6, 2023
Drink: 2023-2033

The 2020 The Maitre d' Cabernet Sauvignon smells of tobacco, cassis, dark chocolate/cocoa and blackberry coulis. In the mouth, the wine is dense; the fruit flavors have a feeling of fusion. There exists no clear boundary between the cassis, the blackberry, the licorice and the tobacco, and yet there is a sense of leafiness/herbaceous character in there, too. Given what I know of the vineyard management, this hardly seems right, but it is there nonetheless. There is a full-throttle display of fruit and tannin here. The oak encases it all. 15.5% alcohol.

Mollydookerwines.com

WHO IS THE MAITRE D??

The Maitre D' was named after Sparky, who put himself through winemaking college as a left handed waiter.

TASTING NOTES:

The deep blend of red purple colours and abundant aromas introduce the depth of this Cabernet. Rich and complex in flavour, notes of cherry and blackberry transition to green herbs, bramble and mocha, all the while maintaining a dimension of sweet fruit. Soft and smooth on the palate, the 2018 Maitre D' balances flavour and structure perfectly.

WS 91pts

TECHNICAL NOTES:

The grapes were grown on the Coppermine Road, Long Gully Road and Ryan Road vineyards in McLaren Vale. Barrel fermented and matured in 83% American and 17% French oak, using 34%, new 51% one year old and 15% two year old barrels. The required Marquis Fruit Weight: for the Lefty Series is 65% - 75%.

Alcohol: 15.5%

Residual Sugar: 0.7 (g/L)

pH: 3.64