From the ancient soils of Wrattonbully (just north of Coonawarra), the Smith & Hooper wines are produced from the family owned Hill-Smith Family Estates. 57% Cabernet Sauvignon and 43% Merlot. Matured for 11 months in French oak barriques (8% new), the rest in one year and older French oak barriques and hogsheads. Winemaker is Heather Fraser.

Smith & Hooper, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Wrattonbully, 2023

Deep purple and garnet edges. Blood plum, choc-mint slice, dried kitchen herbs, young eucalyptus, dried violets, fresh blueberry, lavender flower, graphite, boot polish and all rounded with soft cedar and vanilla oak. Made for now: Flowing, smooth and full with choco-berry plums and blackcurrant. Easy tannins: lamb chops or stuffed mushrooms, baked with a parmesan crust.

RRP: $21
Alc: 14%
Rating: 89/100

Wine sample courtesy of Smith & Hooper