2023 Forest Hill Highbury Fields Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Barker

A fresh, easy-drinking red of forest berry fruitiness, minty herbal elements, white pepper, some clove and cinnamon spice. Juiciness upfront and whips away to a fine but quickly dusty finish. Some black olive, gingery spice and salted licorice, too. This feels pretty smart for the bucks, a sense of restraint and elegance on hand. Good for it.

92 points Special Value Mike Bennie winecompanion.com.au

Forest Hill Highbury Fields Cabernet Sauvignon from Mount Barker is a cool-climate classic with elegance, structure and that unmistakable Forest Hill polish. Grown in the elevated, maritime-influenced region of Great Southern in Western Australia, this Cabernet shows the variety in its purest, most refined form—no fluff, just dark fruit, fine tannins and effortless drinkability.

Forest Hill is one of WA’s oldest vineyards, first planted in 1965. The Highbury Fields range focuses on estate-grown fruit that’s vibrant and expressive, with a light touch in the winery. Winemaker Liam Carmody captures Cabernet’s varietal character beautifully here: bright aromatics, clean lines and enough savoury depth to keep things interesting.

Expect aromas of blackcurrant, bay leaf, tobacco, graphite and a touch of cedar. The palate is medium bodied with cassis, red plum, hints of olive tapenade and crushed herbs. Tannins are silky but present, giving the wine a polished structure and plenty of ageing potential. It’s fresh, finely detailed and distinctly Mount Barker in style—more Bordeaux than blockbuster.

Pair it with rosemary roast lamb, chargrilled steak, mushroom lasagne or a wedge of aged cheddar. It’s great value for the quality and a perfect intro to cool-climate Western Australian Cabernet.