Dedicated to “The Guardsman” William Murdoch, this cabernet sauvignon based wine embodies the strength and refinement of the variety. Deep, dark fruit and violets combine to give this wine an intense, lifted nose. A rich, concentrated palate, with red fruit, cinnamon and nutmeg flavours. Finely structured with depth and power, this is a very serious wine and the head of the William Murdoch clan. Approachable now, but ideal for cellaring.

 

Bob’s Wine Reviews, 2011, Bob Campbell

93 points

“First vintage of the flagship wine (and in fact, all wines). Denise, chewy red with strong ripe berry and plum flavours plus an interesting slight mint/herbal note that the winemaker believes is a vineyard characteristic. Terrific mouth-filling texture really appeals. Slightly rustic and certainly individual wine. Should age well but very accessible now.

Raymond Chan Wine Reviews, October 2011, Raymond Chan

18.5/20

“The flagship wine of William Murdoch, this is a blend of 60% cabernet sauvignon, 20% merlot, 15% malbec and 5% cabernet franc fermented to 13% alc., the wine aged 18 months in new French oak barriques, 50% new. Bright ruby-red colour with good depth, this has an elegant, refined and somewhat reticent bouquet showing ripe blackcurranty fruit with layers of plums, cedar, fresh herbs and subtle oak spices, gently unfolding the glass. Medium-full on the palate, the palate is tightly bound and brooding, with concentrated flavours of blackcurrants, berries and dark plums and nuances of spices, minerals and oak, supported by very fine-grained tannins. The wine has finesse and a well-proportioned structure that has intensity with drive and length. A wine with class, detail and harmony to match with roasted lamb and beef, and with hard aged cheeses over the next 8-10 years.”

Wine Orbit, October 2015, Sam Kim

94 points

Classically expressed, this sturdy Bordeaux style red is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, malbec and cabernet franc. The bouquet is complex and stylish, dis;saying cassis, plum jam, dried herb and cedar notes. It is concentrated and powerful on the palate, and delivers loads of attractive flavours and fine texture, beautifully framed by fine, firm tannins. The wine shows impressive presence and length. At it’s best now to 2025. Certified organic.”