2023 Coriole Songbird Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale

95 points Gold McLaren Vale Wine Show

Cabernet has taken plenty of knocks over the last little bit. Reinvention has drawn some new fans, but thoughtful classic expressions deserve more attention. Case in point. Mulberry, blackcurrant, raspberry, cedar, pepper, violet, a fringe of leafiness, sans greenness. It’s varietally direct and linear, with oak quietly shaping and honing, the feel savoury and vibrant. It will be great at table, and it could take some age. Great value. Drink to 2032.

92 points Special Value Marcus Ellis for Halliday Wine Companion, June 2025

Coriole was founded in 1967 by Hugh and Molly Lloyd after purchasing their Chaffeys Road property in McLaren Vale with its existing Shiraz vineyard. Today, the second and third-generation family members are the caretakers of a much-enlarged viticultural heritage, with 25 vineyard sites across Blewitt Springs, Willunga and McLaren Flat, and vines up to 90 years old.

The Songbird Cabernet Sauvignon is produced from estate grown fruit and seeks to remind us of the freshness and aromatic lift Cabernet Sauvignon can provide. The name is a reference to the large range of birds observed on the property. The 2023 season was uneventful for McLaren Vale, with red wines showing good colour and flavour intensity. Open fermented, with gentle hand plunging for a subtle extraction of tannins. Matured for 12 months in well-seasoned oak barrels.

A highly aromatic Cabernet, with aromas of red and black fruit framed by black pepper and bay leaf and subtle notes of violets. Medium-bodied with clean and vibrant black fruit and hints of dark chocolate and vanilla. The tannins add a refreshing backdrop.

Open the bottle while cooking, then sit down to enjoy with spiced lamb kofta with mint yogurt and sumac onions or dish up steak frites with Café de Paris-butter.