Fontaine Cabernets 2023

Intro: The 2023 Fontaine Cabernets from Dominique Portet is a NSW/Australia crafted “Bordeaux style” blend (via Victoria’s wine region) aimed at being bright, fruit forward, and versatile. It delivers vibrant dark berry fruit and a clean, approachable character. A modern, easy drinking Cabernet blend that balances fruit intensity, freshness, and fine tannins. Though it’s labelled “Cabernets” (plural), the blend reportedly includes not just Cabernet Sauvignon but also some Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot (and possibly a touch of Malbec), making it a richer Bordeaux style mix rather than a pure varietal. The soils for its grapes are described as “rocky and hungry, with a clay base and broken sandstone,” which help give the wine a concentrated fruit core and a mineral tinged structure.

Region: Yarra Valley || Winery: Dominique Portet

Grapes: 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec

Aging: 10 months in French oak barrels

ABV: 13% || Decant: 30–60 minutes || Serving Temp: 16-18°C 

Pairing: BBQ meats, lamb, gourmet pizza, charcuterie, mushroom dishes

Tasting Notes: The 2023 Dominique Portet Fontaine Cabernets shows juicy dark berries on the nose; blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark plum; supported by cedar, subtle spice, a hint of tobacco, and gentle cedar-oak notes. The palate is medium to medium full, offering rich cassis, black cherry, and plum balanced by fresh acidity and smooth, fine grained tannins. A light mineral/earthy touch adds depth. The finish is smooth and lingering with dark fruit and a whisper of spice and cedar, making it approachable and very drink now friendly