AUSTRALIA
CABERNET SAUVIGNON
94 Leeuwin Estate 2016 Prelude Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon (Margaret River). This red draws cassis, currant, eucalyptus, dried violet, tobacco and graphite into a satiny texture and fine, elegantly structured tannins. It’s juicy, medium in weight, long at the finish, classic Margaret River and unmistakably Leeuwin. Drink now–2028. Old Bridge Cellars. Editors’ Choice. —C.P.
abv: 13.5% Price: $29
92 Forest Hill 2017 Highbury Fields Cabernet Sauvignon (Great Southern). This is a cool-climate Cabernet from the far south of Western Australia. The nose is open and expressive, an enticing mix of licorice, currants, baking spices, dried mint and chocolate with mineral undertones and, as it warms in glass, a toffee oak note. Solidly medium bodied, the mouthfeel is silky with a classic combo of power and restraint. Taut, chalky tannins girdle pristine fruit and spice. Drink now–2035 and likely beyond. Hudson Wine Brokers. —C.P.
abv: 14% Price: $20
Despite being in the cooler climes of the Great Southern region of Western Australia, this is a full-bodied and powerful wine. Quiet on the nose at first, it takes some time in decanter or glass before it starts to reveal its brambly fruit, tobacco, dried herb and slightly synthetic, vanillin oak nuances. The palate starts off a little clunky thanks to the oak but with time the juicy fruit,
