2019 Mitolo Jester Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale

Piercing notes of blackcurrant, reminiscent of Ribena. Herbaceous riffs of hedgerow, spearmint and greengage provide lift. Lithe, dense sage-crusted tannins find effortless affinity with the oak cladding (70/30% French/American, all used). But it is the extract and generous mouthfeel that prove winning. No wonder, as 20% of the fruit was dried in the appassimento fashion. This is an impressive cabernet: saline, maritime, full bodied and highly regional.

92 points Special Value Ned Goodwin winecompanion.com.au

Silken, savoury and medium bodied. Ripe cassis flavours initially, followed closely by a complex mix of savoury characters with more cigar-box, brambles and earthy undergrowth notes that really fill out the mid palate. There’s higher toned red fruits as well on return to the glass with a lovely, tight spine of acidity running through, really drawing the palate out.