Pertaringa Understudy Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

I love everything about this wine. The fruit comes from the Picnic Grounds and Klaveniek vineyards in McLaren Vale. The juice goes into small batch static fermenters before 15 months maturation in new (15%) and aged French oak. This wine is slightly more austere than its sibling Shiraz – that will suit some winelovers, while others will opt for the lusciousness of the Shiraz – which is only to be expected. An inky maroon colour, we have notes of dry herbs, blackcurrants, olives and bay leaves. There is even a whiff of orange rind apparent, all underpinned by good structure and even better length. Thanks to firm tannins, this wine will improve over time and easily handle six to ten years in a good cellar. A wine ready to take centre stage any time you like.