2024 Balnaves of Coonawarra Cabernet Merlot, Coonawarra

The 2024 Cabernet Merlot delivers bright and precise aromas of cassis and violets with a balanced leafy lift. There is surprising structure here, with dense chewy tannins and fresh acidity driving a lengthy, currently closed and muscular, gravel-scented finish. Impressive and built to last. Drink to 2044.

93 points Angus Hughson for Vinous, September 2026

There's a lovely depth of flavor and perfume here, with red currant, black cherry, potpourri and a spicy, earthy undertone. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins, a textured yet structured mid-palate and a long fruit-driven finish with plenty of earthy nuance. A finely balanced cabernet merlot blend. Drink or hold.

92 points Ryan Montgomery for James Suckling, September 2026

Another wine that has its fan club in mind, as cabernet merlot sure does have its dedicated followers, and why not? Here, it is a wine with cassis and blackberry foundations and a plummy, slightly compote-like, svelte mid-palate. Some poppy seed, clove-stud spice and a long length of potting soil and coffee grinds. Drink to 2032.

92 points & Special Value Shanteh Wale for Halliday Wine Companion, July 2026

The 2024 Balnaves Cabernet Merlot is comprised of Old Paulownia Cabernet Sauvignon planted in 1973 and Avery Merlot. The wine was matured in French oak of which 27% was new for the season.

This would be a treat with beef brisket cooked slow in a Cantonese master stock and finished with trumpet mushrooms and daikon cooked in the broth.

About this producer

The Balnaves family have been associated with Coonawarra since 1855, with the vineyard at the southern end of the Terra Rossa strip established in 1975. Founders Doug and Annette Balnaves were joined by children Pete and Kirsty in 1990, just in time for their first wines.

Cabernet Sauvignon accounts for 70% of the vineyards, the remaining having been planted to Merlot, Shiraz, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Chardonnay.

Maddie LeMire has been leading the team at the winery from the start of 2025 after Jacinta Jenkins' tenure that followed Pete Bissell’s retirement in 2020. Pete still consults on the wines on a casual basis.