Tasting Notes - Coldstream Hills Briaston Cab Merlot 2000 - Recommended

I only bought this at CD to be nice due to the very good service we received. But...2000 was a very good VY cabernet vintage so it seemed worth a punt.Good vibrant blood red, looks very complete and not at all representative of 7 years in age. Elegant and classy nose of soft blackberry fruits and a 'milky' sweetness from the oak. A touch of acid zing perhaps. The palate was a bit disappointing early, rendered almost disjointed through a fierce astringency in the front palate, but this settled substantially over time to confirm the initial promise in the bouquet. More blackberry, a touch thick, some mild pongy notes, and a hint of the acid and astringency evident upon opening. Medium weight right through the palate and finish. I wonder if Fosters can still make $20 wines like this that look this elegent at 7 years?