2014 d'Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon Museum Release, McLaren Vale

Crushed and destemmed, open-fermented with heading down boards, 2-3 weeks on skins, matured for 22 months in French oak (10% new). Deeply coloured; a prime example of the affinity between McLaren Vale and cabernet, even if the flavours are slightly left field and the wine does best in cooler vintages. It is medium to full-bodied, and the cassis and black olive fruit does have dark chocolate notes, and persistent tannins. Gold medal Adelaide Wine Show '16. Drink by 2034

95 points Special Value James Halliday winecompanion.com.au

d’Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon is one of McLaren Vale’s most consistent and best-loved Cabernet releases, combining the region’s ripe fruit generosity with classical structure. The name comes from the original Cabernet vineyard planted in 1892 on the Osborn family property, where the vines were trained unusually high to improve air circulation. Today, Chester Osborn, fourth-generation winemaker, continues the family tradition of producing small-batch, basket-pressed wines that show both character and regional personality.

In the glass, The High Trellis is a deep crimson red. The nose is lifted and complex, with cassis, blackberry and mulberry layered over notes of dried herbs, cedar, tobacco and a touch of mint – a hallmark of McLaren Vale Cabernet. The palate is medium to full-bodied, offering juicy black fruit wrapped around firm but approachable tannins. Hints of cocoa, liquorice and earthy spice add depth, while a long, savoury finish shows both freshness and power.

Food pairings are classic Cabernet matches: grilled ribeye steak, roast lamb with garlic and rosemary, venison with juniper, or a hearty mushroom and lentil stew. Aged cheddar or manchego cheese also complement the wine beautifully. With 10 to 12 years of cellaring potential, it develops more savoury complexity, gaining notes of leather, cigar box and dried herbs while retaining its core of dark fruit.