Wynn's John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon 1992

The 1992 Wynns Coonawarra Estate John Riddoch Cabernet Sauvignon is a fascinating glimpse into the early decades of this benchmark Australian Cabernet built on deep Terra Rossa soils in Coonawarra, the variety’s spiritual home in South Australia. Known for being made only in outstanding vintages, this bottle has had more than three decades to evolve, revealing nuances that younger versions can only hint at.

In the glass, the colour leans toward a matured garnet with brick-hued edges, a hallmark of graceful bottle age rather than decline. The bouquet is layered and evocative: cassis and sour cherry mingle with mint-eucalypt lift, cigar box, leather saddle and savoury earthy tones, all woven together with skilful oak integration.

The palate still carries persistent black-fruit character of dark plums supported by firm structure and balanced acidity. Tannins, though softened with age, provide grip and direction, framing a long finish where cedar spice and subtle tobacco linger. 

This is Cabernet at a reflective stage: no longer about youthful intensity, but about complexity, terroir expression and grace.