Jim Barry The Benbournie Cabernet 2013

This Benbournie 2013 from Clare Valley is a majestic figure in the glass—deep garnet with edges gently softened by its years. Aromas of dark berry, blueberry, blackcurrant tumble out, edged by cedar-oak, leather, tobacco and a whisper of fresh herbs. The palate is muscular yet beautifully composed: firm, fine-grained tannins giving structure, balanced by lingering acidity that lifts the richness of cassis, dark chocolate and ripe plum. Earthy and savoury notes—mushroom, cedar bark—emerge towards the finish, with a long echo of oak spice and forest floor. This is a wine showing maturity, built to marvel over the next decade more or so if stored properly.