Happiness, as Jim Rohn puts it, isn’t something you postpone for the future, it’s something you design for the present. Wine can be much the same. Yes, cellar those bottles that will bring pleasure down the track, but don’t forget the excitement and anticipation of opening one that’s already giving everything you need right now. Some wines reward patience, absolutely, but plenty offer their best moments in the present, and there’s something wonderfully simple about enjoying them while they’re drinking so well right now.

Beresford’s Classic range seems to walk the line between immediate enjoyment and gentle age-ability perfectly, and the 2024 Classic Cabernet Sauvignon fits squarely into that philosophy. It’s a wine built with approachability in mind and in a style that doesn’t demand cellaring to show its character. Beneath that charm sits the subtle yet familiar Beresford structure that hints there is still more to come. It’s a Cabernet designed for the present, but one that won’t mind being tucked away for moments of happiness in the future.

Live simply. Laugh often. Wine a lot.

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

The nose brings together leafy, twiggy and herbal notes with a good dose of blackcurrant fruit and a gentle cedar‑like oak character. It’s complex and nicely balanced, with nothing pushing for attention. The palate is medium‑bodied and clean, with black fruits leading the way and a subtle earthy note. Fine tannins give support without interrupting the wine’s easy flow, and the length is really good; relaxed, cruisy and elegant.

An approachable, varietal Cabernet that’s showing delightful, sophisticated characters now while also hinting at a little more to come. A genuinely enjoyable wine, and one I liked more with every sip.