The 2021 Phoenix Cabernet Sauvignon spent 15 days on skins with twice daily pumpers and matured in a combination of vessels for 12 months (65% seasoned French oak, 5% new French oak, 30% in stainless steel). This is an unashamedly bright, fruit-driven Cabernet Sauvignon that rests on a very fine rachis of tannin on the mid-palate. It is supple and fine and oh so fresh. It is modern, juicy, vibrant and crunchy, even, reminiscent of good Loire Chinon. It is also a very good value, with a suggested retail price of $20AUD.

An elegant version, with firm earthy notes to the star anise, green cardamom and cigar box spiciness, backed by a touch of Dutch cocoa powder. Reveals spiced plum, cassis and kirsch flavors that are plump and velvety, with a long finish. Drink now through 2030. 7,000 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Coonawarra Select to Add

This has terrific concentration, with generous black licorice, Earl Grey, allspice and dark chocolate notes that mingle with cassis, spiced stewed plum and toasted herb details. Shows plenty of harmony on the long, expressive finish, with velvety tannins. Drink now through 2035. 4,300 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Coonawarra Select to Add

Firm, with savory details of loam and toasted herbs adding bass notes to the dense and muscular body of cassis, wild blackberry and plum flavors. Black tea, pepper and spice details linger on the finish. Drink now through 2035. 4,300 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Coonawarra Select to Add

The 2018 Phoenix Cabernet Sauvignon comes across as slightly herbal and minty but with plenty of underlying black cherry fruit. It's medium to full-bodied, with a nice grainy texture on the palate and a gently dusty finish. It should drink well for 5-7 years, perhaps longer.