There’s few Barossa Cabernets that are truly wonderful, I had a Barossa winemaker recently tell me it can be “bony.” As a result the lure of extra oak can be tempting.

Jacob’s Creek, Barossa Signature, Cabernet Sauvignon, Barossa Valley, 2017

Offers Barossa plum, chocolate, ripe blackberry and a little leafy mint. Roundness rather than elegance with the oak: vanilla bean paste smears with chary smoky edges. Whilst the wine is into full bodied range it presents tight black fruit, if a little skeletal with tannins both floury and astringent. There’s a heat to the finish which detracts from an otherwise sound wine.

RRP: $19.99
Alc: 14.2%
Rating: 16/20

Wine sample courtesy of Jacob’s Creek