Richard Hamilton, 'Hut Block' Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020

'One-Liner'
A rich, mint-flecked McLaren Vale Cabernet with cassis, mocha and a long, polished finish.

Tasting Note
Deep crimson in the glass. The nose is full of ripe cassis and dark cherry, with hints of mint and oak-derived mocha and vanilla. On the palate it is vibrant and full-flavoured, with succulent blackberry fruit, medium-full body and long tannins that carry the finish nicely. This is a generous Cabernet, but it still feels composed rather than overblown.

Country: Australia
Region: McLaren Vale
Sub-Region: South Australia
Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
ABV: 14%
Friendly: Vegan, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
n/a

The Story
Hut Block is not just a brand name bolted onto the label. It refers to a specific part of the Richard Hamilton estate in McLaren Vale, with Cabernet vines planted in a small hollow at the foot of an old sand dune. That feels very McLaren Vale in spirit – sun, ripeness and generosity, but with enough site character to give the wine shape and identity. In Cabernet Sauvignon, that translates into dark fruit, minty lift and a slightly savoury edge that suits the variety very well.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Braised lamb with rosemary and garlic
- Vegetarian: Charred mushroom and black pepper pappardelle
- Vegan: Braised red cabbage with lentils and roasted onions