Shingleback send out selected back vintages from time to time, so I was able to taste this alongside the 2012 and the 2014 (also a chance to see how they’re travelling). 15 months in French oak.

Shingleback, Davey Estate, Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, McLaren Vale, 2015

Perfumed, if a little restrained nose: Sweet black currant fruit, with a just minty edge: cigar smoke, blueberries, violets and McLaren chocolate.  Tight, closed and built for the long haul, there’s all the indicators that this will open (like the 2012 has and the 2014 is becoming), but for now this merely hints with graphite, blackberry and tightly knitted tannins.  A value option for the cellar.

RRP: $25
Alc: 14%
Rating: 18/20

Wine sample courtesy of Shingleback