Flagship territory here for Clandestine Vineyards. 55% Cabernet Sauvignon (grown at Acacia Ridge in Frankland River, Great Southern) and 45% Malbec (grown at Celestial Bay, Margaret River). 25% new, 75% 1st and 2nd year French oak barriques for malolactic fermentation and maturation. No fining, no filtration.

Clandestine Vineyards, Hearts & Minds, Cabernet, Malbec, Western Australia, 2021

Deep coloured, near opaque purple. Cassis and licorice dominate, with cedar and mocha from the oak. Dust, violets, bramble, bay leaf herb and warm blackberry jus complete a complex nose. Initially plush and herbal before the intensity is ramped up with a wide spread of fine, drying, cloaking tannin. The fruit reemerges with a vitality and drive. I like the intent and the push.

RRP: $60
Alc: 14.5%
Rating: 94/100

Wine sample courtesy of Clandestine Vineyards