Words from a Wine Glass

Novelist Sophie Hannah once wrote that Poirot doesn’t need “updating.” He’s already a perfect character in his classic form. He’s fastidiously dressed, dignified, meticulous, and precise, and he approaches every case with the same calm, methodical confidence. Some things don’t need updating, modernising or reinventing. They just need to be done well, with care, precision and a steady hand to deliver a result that feels inevitable because the groundwork was laid so carefully.

McLaren Vale Cabernet has that same energy when it’s made properly. It’s a style that doesn’t need bells and whistles or a new personality every vintage. It just needs good fruit depth, a savoury thread, a style built on balance, thoughtful winemaking and a steady hand with oak. This wine fits that mould beautifully, leaning into the strengths of the region and the variety resulting in a Classic McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon.

This 2023 release doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel. It simply does what classic Cabernet should do, and it does it well. Here’s how it plays out in the glass.

Live simply. Laugh often. Wine a lot.

Region: McLaren Vale, S.A.     Price: $35     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Beresford Estate

The nose opens with blackberry, a gentle herbal lift and a touch of vanilla oak, with an extra savoury sort of character that I can’t seem to put my finger on, but it’s a good addition. The palate is packed with good fruit intensity. Juicy, smooth and immediately appealing with blackberries and dark cherry leading the way. There’s a lovely silkiness to the mouthfeel, supported by the lovely use of oak that does not weigh the wine down in the slightest. Texture is present and adds to the composure of the wine, and the slightly drying tannins give the wine a bit of backbone. A subtle herbal thread runs through the fruit, keeping things savoury and adding complexity while finishing long, fruity and satisfying. It’s rich and bold in flavour yet easy to drink, with plenty of appeal. A solid, great‑value McLaren Vale Cabernet that is approachable, enjoyable and absolutely a “yes please” wine.

I’ll say straight up, this one caught me off guard but in such a good way. McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon always feels like it’s stuck in the back seat of the Shiraz motor car. Welcome to go along for the ride, but never really allowed to touch the radio. Every now and then though, a producer hands it the keys and you realise Cab Sav can actually steer just fine. It’s the quiet achiever of McLaren Vale, rarely the headline act, but more than capable when the right site and season line up. Give it a patch in Blewett Springs and suddenly it’s not just keeping pace, it’s showing a kind of elegance and poise that makes you rethink the whole “poor cousin” idea.

This vintage does exactly that, reminding you that McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon can shine when it’s not trying to be something it’s not. It’s a wine that steps forward with enough confidence to make you stop and pay attention.

Live simply. Laugh often. Wine a lot.

Region: McLaren Vale, S.A.     Price: $45     Source: Sample thanks kindly to Beresford Estate

This Cabernet opens with youthful aromas of blackberries, a herbal note and a gentle earthiness. Varietal, yes. Simple, definitely no. The palate is fresh and generous, sitting in that medium-to-full‑bodied space with black cherry, blackcurrant, plums and a touch of liquorice. There’s a little top quality dark chocolate in the mix too, adding interest without pushing the other flavours around. The tannins are supportive, as those lovely flavours unfold gracefully across the palate. An unexpected beauty and a reminder of just how refined the Blewett Springs site can be.