Brand & Sons Sanctuary Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 

A fitting name for a wine reviewed in the height of Winter during a house renovation. The best wines are a source of escapism. Eyes closed, nose buried in my glass – and the absence of a kitchen, heating, or adequate electrical fades away. Deep and generous, the wine is an expression of sandalwood, blackcurrant, pink peppercorn, and soy. Tightly wound, its clarity and equilibrium are both auspicious signs of what’s to come. The palate is dense, its sweet berry heart layered with thyme, marjoram, graphite, and rustic tannins. Vitality and vigour define a wine that rolls across the palate and envelops it completely. A broad-shouldered beauty.