The Dogwalk Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

The Dogwalk’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 ($26) – No doubt that there is a very good reason for calling this cracking value Cabernet from the Clare Valley, ‘the Dogwalk’, however, unfortunately I haven't the slightest idea what that is. No matter, as we are here to drink it and not discuss label intricacies. From the Polish Hill River sub-region in the Clare Valley, the fruit underwent what the team described as a ‘spontaneous ferment’. The wine spent sixteen months in French oak barriques for maturation, 10% of them new.

A deep russet hue, the nose weaves through aromas of cigar boxes, blackberries, leather, bacon fat, dried herbs, milk chocolate, charcuterie, coffee grinds and a touch of plums. There is good focus here, through to a gentle grip on a wine of medium length. An attractive style which should provide pleasure for the next six to eight years. 92.