Stonehaven Limited Vineyard Release Cabernet Sauvignon (Padthaway) 2021

Can’t fault the value here. 35-year-old vines, the grapes went through small batch fermentation with a 16 day maceration and then 18 months in French oak hogsheads. Dark maroon hue. There are notes of black fruits, aniseed, chocolate, tobacco leaf, spices and cedar. A flick of vanilla too from the oak, well integrated. This is impressively structured with good balance and excellent length. Showing fine tannins, the wine is youthful, promising and already exhibiting a touch of complexity. Lots of blackberries on the palate with hints of soy. Drink for six to ten years.