2023 Timo Mayer Cabernet, Yarra Valley

Superbly delineated aromas of dried sage, cassis, bay leaves, green beans and mossy forest scents. 100% whole bunch without an ounce of edginess or astringency. This is gorgeous, medium-bodied, perfumed and succulent. There’s a gentle raft of tannins rather than a chunky heaviness. Not dissimilar to the levity and élan of top Loire cabernet franc. Delicious. Drink or hold.

95 points jamessuckling.com

Cabernet from a north-facing slope on Hans and Anna Orth's vineyard in Coldstream. 100% whole bunches, matured in hogsheads (10% new). A bit darker and denser than last year's wine but equally elegant and perfumed with its scents of blackcurrant, cherry, blackberry leaf and violets. Medium bodied with balanced, mouthcoating yet fine tannins. A lovely wine, more reminiscent of great cabernet franc than sauvignon.

96 points Special Value Philip Rich winecompanion.com.

From the steep, close planted slopes of Bloody Hill comes a Cabernet that has built genuine cult status in the Yarra Valley. Timo Mayer, the German born, minimal intervention vigneron behind these highly sought after wines, applies whole bunch fermentation, wild yeasts and hands on vineyard work to Cabernet Sauvignon with fearless individuality. Produced in small quantities and tightly allocated, this release consistently sells out quickly, driven by collectors who value savoury detail and structure over glossy winemaking. In the cool climate of the Yarra Valley, Cabernet develops perfume, fine tannins and natural freshness, and Mayer fully embraces that restrained, aromatic style.

Deep crimson with bright ruby flashes, the nose is lifted and layered. Redcurrant, sour cherry and black plum lead, followed by bay leaf, crushed violet and dried herbs. Whole bunch inclusion adds subtle stem spice and aromatic tension, giving the wine freshness and complexity.

On the palate it is medium bodied and finely structured, driven by vibrant natural acidity and chalky tannins. Red and black fruits sit at the core, framed by notes of graphite, tobacco leaf and gentle oak. The finish is long and savoury, carrying classic cool climate Cabernet character with clarity and precision rather than weight. It is structured, energetic and unmistakably Mayer.

Serve with rare roast beef, grilled lamb cutlets, charred eggplant or mushroom and lentil dishes. Compelling now for its vibrancy and lift, it will cellar confidently for ten to fifteen years, developing leafy, earthy complexity and further integration.