2020 Balnaves of Coonawarra The Blend, Coonawarra

A blend of 67/26/4/3% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/petit verdot/cabernet franc; matured in 18% new French oak for 12 months. This offers a medium-weight serve of black- and red-berried fruit flavour, though there are also plenty of leafier, more savoury aspects around the edges along with eucalypt and smoky oak notes. It's drinking well young, but it has all the sturdiness required to last well into the future. Balnaves always seems to over deliver on quality, and this is another example.

93 points Special Value Campbell Mattinson winecompanion.com.au

The Balnaves of Coonawarra The Blend is a vibrant and approachable red that captures the essence of Coonawarra’s famed terra rossa soils and maritime climate. The Balnaves family has been farming in Coonawarra since 1855, and their wines are a true reflection of the region’s ability to craft both elegance and intensity. The Blend brings together Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc in varying proportions depending on the vintage, producing a wine that is generous, supple and food-friendly, while still carrying the hallmark structure of Coonawarra reds.

In the glass it is a deep crimson with purple highlights. The nose is fragrant and lifted, showing blackberry, cassis and mulberry alongside hints of violet, cedar, chocolate and savoury spice. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth, with juicy dark fruit flavours balanced by fine tannins and fresh acidity. Subtle oak adds a touch of mocha and clove, while the finish is long, silky and well-rounded, making it immediately appealing yet structured enough for short to mid-term cellaring.

Food pairings suit its supple style and balance: roast lamb with rosemary, beef and mushroom pie, grilled pork chops, or vegetarian options like eggplant parmigiana and mushroom risotto. It also pairs beautifully with a cheese platter featuring aged cheddar or pecorino. Best enjoyed in its youth for freshness and generosity, it can cellar for 5 to 8 years, developing more savoury and earthy complexity.