Parker Coonawarra Estate First Growth Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Region and Vineyards

The 2019 First Growth is rooted in the celebrated terra rossa soils of Coonawarra, in South Australia's Limestone Coast. This narrow strip of vivid red clay atop calcareous subsoils is renowned for producing some of the world’s most age-worthy Cabernet Sauvignon. The cool maritime-influenced climate promotes slow, even ripening, preserving vibrant acidity and varietal purity.

The fruit is sourced exclusively from the ‘Abbey’ estate vineyard, planted predominantly with Reynell Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, a rare pre-phylloxera clone originating from Bordeaux. These vines, established in 1985, are now mature and deeply rooted, yielding low but intensely flavoured berries. The site’s ideal exposition and soil profile contribute to wines of both concentration and refined structure.

Winemaking

Harvested in April 2019, the grapes underwent an extended maceration process in a 9-tonne closed static fermenter. Following an 11-day fermentation, the must remained on skins for a total of 38 days. This approach fosters profound tannin integration, enhancing the wine’s ageing potential and textural complexity.

Post fermentation, the wine was transferred to 80% new French oak barriques, sourced from the prestigious cooperages Saury Bordeaux, Seguin Moreau, and D’Aquitaine. After 18 months’ maturation in oak, the wine emerged with polished tannins, an elegant oak framework, and a finely layered structure destined to evolve for over two decades in the cellar.

Tasting Notes

• Color: Deep red with vibrant crimson hues.
• Aroma: Intense notes of cassis, dark berries, and cigar box, layered with savoury and herbal nuances. Vibrant and complex.
• Palate: Medium-bodied yet powerful, with a core of blackcurrant, dark cherry, and bay leaf. Oak is seamlessly integrated, lending spice and structure. The wine is tightly coiled with fine acidity and great persistence, showing both elegance and longevity.

Did you know?

The Reynell Selection, used exclusively in this wine, descends from original Bordeaux cuttings imported into South Australia in the 19th century. These clones, once lost to phylloxera in France, now flourish in Coonawarra, preserving a genetic heritage nearly extinct in their native region.

Wine Pairing Ideas

• Dry-aged ribeye steak with chimichurri: The wine's structure and cassis core perfectly complement rich, grilled beef.
• Roast venison with blackberry jus: The wild game and berry reduction echo the wine’s dark fruit profile and herbal lift.
• Beef bourguignon: The depth of flavour and savoury notes in the dish mirror the wine’s layered complexity.
• Mature Gouda or aged Manchego: Firm cheeses with umami intensity enhance the First Growth's tannins and spice.

History of Parker Coonawarra

Parker Coonawarra Estate was established in 1985 by John and Faye Parker with a singular focus: to craft world-class Cabernet Sauvignon that could rival the finest wines of Bordeaux. From its inception, the estate has been rooted in a philosophy of uncompromising quality, underpinned by meticulous viticulture and traditional winemaking.

The foundation of the estate's identity lies in the Reynell Selection Cabernet Sauvignon, a rare clone of pre-phylloxera Bordeaux origin. This genetic treasure, planted in 1985, provides the backbone for the estate’s flagship wines, particularly First Growth and 95 Block.

Over the decades, Parker has earned a reputation as one of Coonawarra's premier producers, consistently recognized for its age-worthy and terroir-expressive reds. The estate has been stewarded by several dedicated winemakers, with each generation preserving the stylistic integrity that has made Parker a reference point for the region.

Region and Vineyards

Parker Coonawarra Estate is located along the terra rossa strip in the heart of Coonawarra, one of Australia’s most iconic red wine regions. This narrow ribbon of rich red clay over limestone provides optimal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon: excellent drainage, moderate fertility, and a cooling maritime climate that extends the ripening period.

The estate’s fruit comes predominantly from its Abbey vineyard, where low-yielding, dry-grown vines dig deep into the limestone subsoil. The Reynell clone, a vital part of Parker’s identity, lends the wines their hallmark depth, concentration, and aging potential.

The Abbey site also features small plantings of Petit Verdot, often co-fermented with Cabernet to add structure and aromatic lift to select cuvées.

Wine Range of Parker Coonawarra

Parker Coonawarra specializes in Cabernet Sauvignon-led wines, all showcasing the estate’s signature elegance and structure. The portfolio is anchored by:

• First Growth: A flagship 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, produced only in the finest vintages. Aged extensively in French oak, it represents the pinnacle of the estate’s craftsmanship.
• 95 Block: A limited release from a distinct vineyard parcel, blending Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. Noted for its precision and purity.
• Terra Rossa Cabernet Sauvignon: The estate’s classic expression, offering immediate charm and cellar potential.
• Coonawarra Series: A more approachable style capturing the essence of the region’s red fruit and herbal character.

Each wine reflects Parker's philosophy of minimal intervention, allowing the vineyard and vintage to speak with clarity.

Did you know?

The Reynell clone of Cabernet Sauvignon planted at Parker Estate is a direct descendant of vines brought to South Australia from Bordeaux before the phylloxera outbreak. These vines are now extinct in their native France, making Parker's vineyard a living repository of pre-phylloxera Bordeaux heritage.