2017 Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon, Margaret River

90/5/5% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/petit verdot. Hand-picked fruit, on skins for up to 91 days. Matured for 18 months in mainly French oak (10% Hungarian), 58% new. 2017 was cool and wet, yet here is responsible for a wine that is ripe and rich. The red fruit on the palate has both density and power, yet is nuanced by a soft, leafy, floral character. The palate is plush and bolstered by oak, which is making a significant impact right now, but the tannins remain fine. Clove bud and aniseed lace together through the finish. The length of flavour is the ultimate testament to quality here.

95 points Erin Larkin winecompanion.com.au