Clarendon Hills 'Sandown' Cabernet Sauvignon 2020

Clarendon Hills, founded by Roman Bratasiuk in South Australia's McLaren Vale, is known for producing exceptional single-vineyard wines that express the character of their unique terroirs. The ‘Sandown’ Cabernet Sauvignon comes from low-yielding old vines planted in the Sandown vineyard, situated on ancient sandy loam soils. Unlike the typical fruit-forward style of McLaren Vale, the Sandown Cabernet stands out for its structure, balance, and more restrained, elegant profile. The 2020 vintage saw warm growing conditions, which led to excellent concentration and ripe tannins, while maintaining the fresh acidity necessary for aging.

Appearance: Deep garnet with an almost opaque core, reflecting the wine’s intensity and youthful vibrancy.

Aroma: An enticing nose of blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, alongside herbal notes of mint, eucalyptus, and tobacco leaf. Subtle hints of cedar, pencil shavings, and dark chocolate emerge from the well-integrated oak, adding depth and complexity.

Taste: Full-bodied with rich layers of dark fruit—blackberry, cassis, and plum—balanced by savoury, earthy tones of graphite, cedar, and a touch of dried herbs. The fine-grained tannins provide structure and firmness, while a bright acidity lifts the ripe fruit, giving the wine a refreshing edge. The oak is subtle, contributing hints of vanilla and spice without overpowering the fruit. This Cabernet shows excellent balance, with both power and finesse.

Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering dark fruit, herbal notes, and a mineral finish. The tannins are firm but smooth, leaving a polished and elegant impression that will evolve beautifully with age.

Food Pairing: This Cabernet Sauvignon is an ideal match for grilled ribeye steak, where the wine’s tannins and dark fruit complement the rich, charred flavours of the meat. It would also pair beautifully with slow-braised beef short ribs, as the wine’s structure and acidity cut through the richness, while the savoury elements enhance the depth of the dish.