Voyager Estate MJW Cabernet Sauvignon 2016

Of all the top cabernet sauvignons from Margaret River, this wine is the most Bordeaux like. Perhaps its location in the southern part of Margaret River plays a role but whatever it is the MJW is a brooding, savoury and quite classic cabernet sauvignon that is made for the cellar. The 2016 vintage is an admirable followup to the exceptional 2014, although perhaps will not be quite as long lived.

Deeply coloured, it opens with powerful blackcurrant, pencil shavings and cedary fruits that are focussed and pure. Wood plays a big part right now, unsurprisingly, thanks to 20 months in 50% new, small French oak, but it is well balanced with the dense fruit. The palate is then dry and strong; gravel and violet tinged dark fruits on a full-bodied palate are underpinned by firm, yet fleshy tannins, which support a long finish. This is an incredibly classy and charming Margaret River red that is without doubt one of the region’s icons.