Description

The 2026 season started out cool and wet resulting in a late and challenging flower with yields reduced significantly as a consequence. January was very dry and quite warm when compared with the last 5 years. The rain returned in late February leading in to a slow, late ripening. The wines from 2026 have best balance of pH, acidity and alcohol that we have seen in many years. They are bright in colour, complex and very well structured. This year’s Cathedral is approximately 30% Mornington Peninsula, 30% King Valley and the balance a blend of Yarra Valley, Upper Goulburn and Mt Gambier. The wine smells of dark plums, black cherry, blackcurrant and pomegranate molasses as well as poached pears, mace and five spice. It is dense and complex with a very well structured palate that also shows lots of red and dark berry fruits and a savoury minerality. This is very likely the best version of Cathedral we made.