2015 Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

Deep garnet. Although the generosity of the nose will increase with age, this young cabernet already displays abundant red fruit jam notes, supported by blond caramel, sweet liquorice and cocoa nibs that let through hints of varietal dried herbs and fresh forest floor.

The attack is delicate and focused but the palate packs a lot of muscle for its age. Retaining some typical dry bay leaf and tobacco notes, the wine displays serious black and red cherry fruit, jammed and caramelized, complemented by focused tannins upfront that generously unravel into warm supple cocoa beans and mocha notes. The noble oak supports the structure all the way to the long licoricy finish that invites a second sip.