Stockman’s Ridge release a Cabernet Sauvignon into the Rider mid tier range (the fruit no doubt forms the spine of their Left Bank and Right Bank wines). Winemaker is the lauded Will Rikard-Bell.

Stockman’s Ridge, Rider Cabernet Sauvignon, Orange, 2022

Deep garnet hue. Roast beet aromas over mulberry paste, bay leaf, pencil shavings, soft char, easy cedary oak, a touch of blackcurrant pastille, blue stone, raspberries and black cherries (stones out). Just medium bodied with a predominant brightly lit dark fruit profile. There’s good lift with a hint of oak spice. The fruit hits a few regional hallmarks with tomato stalk and jalapeno greenness which is offset by red fruits. Easy to enjoy, but drink now.

RRP: $30
Alc: 13.1%
Rating: 90/100

Wine sample courtesy of Stockman’s Ridge and Define Wine