2022 Pertaringa Understudy Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale

Pertaringa Understudy Cabernet Sauvignon from McLaren Vale is a bold, approachable take on one of the world’s classic red varieties—delivering all the structure and depth you’d expect from Cabernet, with the plush, ripe fruit character that McLaren Vale does so well. It’s a wine that balances generosity with drinkability, made for early enjoyment without sacrificing complexity.

Part of the Bec Hardy Wines portfolio, Pertaringa is steeped in South Australian wine heritage. The Understudy range allows the team to showcase varietal expression from carefully selected vineyard sites across the region. The Cabernet is sourced from low-yielding vines grown on ancient soils, where the Mediterranean climate—warm days and cool nights—helps develop ripe, concentrated fruit while retaining freshness.

Winemaking is modern and thoughtful. The grapes are fermented in stainless steel for purity and gently extracted to preserve fruit vibrancy. Maturation in a mix of French and American oak adds texture, spice, and a layer of polish to the final blend.

In the glass, the wine opens with aromas of blackcurrant, plum, mint, and a hint of cedar. The palate is medium to full bodied with soft tannins, juicy dark fruit, and notes of mocha, dried herbs, and spice. There’s a satisfying balance between structure and drinkability, making it a perfect match for grilled meats, burgers, or a hearty mushroom ragù.

This is Cabernet with personality—friendly, expressive, and unmistakably McLaren Vale.