Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
Napa Valley $29.95 (232371) 14.6% alcohol
Rich aromas of black currant and espresso roast mingle with earthy notes on the nose of this wondrously structured, complex gem. A gusher of luscious ripe mulberry and black berry interwoven with mixed spice and dark chocolate floods the palate. It’s full bodied and fully textured with a long finish that’s dry, mouth watering and delicious. (Vic Harradine)
Catena Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Mendoza $19.95 (985002) 13.5% alcohol
A subdued nose of spice, dark berry fruit and notions of espresso roast set the stage for a racy wash of spice-infused red fruit—sour cherry, pomegranate and red currant. It’s medium bodied, nicely textured and sports a savory, dry finish and aftertaste robed in roasted herbs. This is best poured with lasagna or prawn and chorizo paella. (Vic Harradine)
Francis Coppola ‘Diamond Collection Ivory Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
California $24.95 (521021) 13.5% alcohol
Wood smoke and toasty oak mingle with ripe dark fruit—mulberry, bramble berry and juicy cherry on the nose of this meaty, delectable California Cab. It’s full bodied and fully flavoured flaunting rich, concentrated and luscious flavours of spice-laden black Bing cherry and briary berry garnished with dark chocolate and cassis. The finish lingers with gorgeous replays, lip-smacking tang and a supple tannin base. (Vic Harradine)
Beronia ‘Reserva’ 2009
DOCa Rioja $18.95 (050203) 14.0% alcohol
This Tempranillo/Graciano/Mazuelo blend spent 18 months in French and American oak barrels then 20 months in bottle before release. Black plum, red cherry, leather and spice on the nose, it dishes up a lively wash of baking spice, red and black cherry and briary berry on the palate. It’s medium weight with satin smooth texture and a long, racy, lip-smacking finish. (Vic Harradine)
Wynns Coonawarra Estate ‘Black Label’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Coonawarra, South Australia $27.95 (84996) 13.5% alcohol
This is a premium vintage for this iconic red, found in the ‘Excellent’ category of the vaunted Langton’s Classification of Australia’s most sought-after wines. Aromas of dark berry fruit robed in savory herbs and spice herald an elegant, balanced wash of complex flavours with black currant and dark cherry mingling with roasted herbs and hints of bittersweet chocolate. It’s fully textured and full flavoured, balanced and well paced with a lengthy, gorgeous finish. (Vic Harradine)
Majella ‘The Magician’ Cabernet/Shiraz 2012
Coonawarra, South Australia $19.95 (142018) 14.5% alcohol
Exotic spice, tobacco leaf, campfire smoke and black plum aromas on the nose, this streaks across the palate with red and black currant, sour cherry and oodles of tang. It’s medium-plus weight with generous mouth feel and a lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste of red berry fruit and spice. Serve with red pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
McManis Cabernet Sauvignon 2013
California $19.95 (212126) 13.5% alcohol
Alluring aromas of ripe, dark fruit, baking spice, toast and smoke precede a gusher of bramble berry pie, mixed spice and red cherry, mellow and smooth, fruit forward. Mid-full weight and fully textured the lingering aftertaste delivers kirsch liqueur and spice-laden, ripe briary berry. Pour with grilled smoked back ribs mopped in spicy barbecue sauce. (Vic Harradine)
Irony ‘Small Lot Reserve’ Merlot 2011
Napa Valley, California $19.95 (183186) 14.5% alcohol
Dark cherry and black berry fruit aromas mingle with earthy notes and wisps of mint on the nose. This is deftly balanced with structure, purity of fruit and rich, luscious flavour. It’s medium bodied with satin-smooth texture and lots of charm. Stylish flavours of black currant, cassis and ripe mulberry caress the palate, infusing the long, sweet, fruity finish. There’s good value and an evening of pleasure here. (Vic Harradine)