Ringbolt Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 (Western Australia) - 8 $24

TOP BORDEAUX

★★★★★

GREAT MARGARET RIVER cabernet sauvignon is known for a combination of power and restraint that culminates in an elegant and even, dare I say it, graceful offering. Not traditionally words that are associated with Australian cabernet sauvignon, but this highlights once again the importance of a focus on regionality in wine. The grapes were grown in a selection of vineyards, mostly from the small but pre-eminent subregion of Wilyabrup near the Indian Ocean. The moderating effects of both the ocean and the sand and gravel soils helps to restrict vine yields and therefore ensures quality and complexity in the wine.

Ringbolt winemaker Heather Fraser recalls “near perfect” cabernet sauvignon ripening conditions in Margaret River during the 2018 vintage. More than sufficient rain during winter was followed by a calm dry spring, conditions that are considered ideal for flowering. Once fruit had set, a long dry warm summer followed and ensured the cabernet sauvignon grapes optimum ripening.

Subdued and understated are the initial key descriptors for this wine. But

2 / Saint Clair Pioneer Block 17 Cabernet Merlot 2018 (Hawke’s Bay) ★★★★★ - 3 $37.90

Cabernet sauvignon, merlot and malbec beautifully blended to create lifted aromas of blackberry leaf and redcurrant jam. A wonderfully fresh and lively wine with both chocolate and coffee flavours conversely complemented by savoury layers weaving through the palate with spicy, supple tannins and a long lingering finish.

3 / Smith & Sheth CRU “Cantera” 2017 (Hawke’s Bay) ★★★★★ - 7 $60

A powerhouse cabernet sauvignon, cabernet franc and tempranillo blend with deep, dark colour and intriguing mocha and rustic bramble aromas on the nose. Juicy, dense, dark fruits such as blackcurrant are stunning on the palate. Excellently blended to ensure perfect harmony and balance with great complexity and powerful age-worthiness.