Raga Five Rivers 2024

In a former life, winemaker Sid Pachare was a chef – and though he may have hung up the whites, his knack for balance, flavour and texture remains ever present. ‘Five Rivers’ is proof, a seamless confluence of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot. A wine that drinks like its swirl icon – a coiled continuum of fruit, earth, and confection. Blackberry jam and raspberry. Gravel and sweet musk. Red frogs and chocolate bullets. Together framed with bay leaf, pine and the savoury structure of 20% whole bunch. Youthful acidity ricochets across the palate as creamy milk chocolate tannins mellow the movement. It is a delicious interplay, and one that gives the wine shape and energy. *Chef’s kiss*.