Aramis Wines McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Some seriously good value drinking to be had here. Warm climate Cabernet Sauvignon is not everyone’s cup of tea (or should that be glass of red), but if you put aside the fact that it will never replicate Bordeaux or Marg River, or other famous Cab regions, and simply focus on the fact that these wines can provide delicious drinking, you won’t go wrong. The fruit comes from estate vineyards in the southern parts of McLaren Vale and saw a year and a half maturation in a combination of tanks and older French oak barrels. 2022 is a very fine vintage in the region, which also helps. An opaque maroon hue, the nose exhibits notes of chocolate, tobacco leaves, dried herbs, blackcurrants, cocoa powder, coffee beans and licorice. A seamless texture is matched with serious intensity, a seductive texture, sleek tannins, bright acidity and a flick of well handled oak. The palate sees the emergence of notes of cloves, axle grease and earthy tones. This has at least a good eight years ahead of it. What is not to like?