💎 On The Hunt Again 💎
After a few louder bottles with big personalities, we figured it was time to bring the volume down. This week’s pick didn’t come recommended, and it wasn’t one we’d tried before - we just saw it on special and thought we’d give it a crack and let you know whether it’s worth your coin.
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A Colossal? Maybe 💎
🍷 Colossal Cave Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon (2022)
We’ve had a run of showy bottles lately, so it felt like a good time to reset the palate with something a little more low-key. This one caught our eye while cruising the Cab Sauv section at Dan Murphy’s - dark label, premium vibes, on special for $15. Usually retails closer to $23, but after a bit of poking around, it looks like it’s one of those wines that’s always quietly discounted. Classic.
We’re mostly Shiraz loyalists here at Vine in the Rough, but Cabernet Sauvignon is a very close second. So when we saw this one from Margaret River, we figured it was worth rolling the dice. The region’s known for punching above its weight, and this bottle plays the part pretty well.
According to its self description, it’s “earthy, with aromas of dark red fruits, plums and spicy notes, complemented by fine tannins and a smooth finish.” Pretty simple description - and honestly, pretty spot on. It’s not reinventing the Cab Sauv wheel, but it’s doing all the right things: a decent kick of flavour, smooth enough to enjoy, and not too much of anything.
We liked the look of the bottle too. Moody and understated, like something you’d expect to find at a dinner party where someone’s burning incense and playing The Cure in the background. It’s not flashy, but it gives off that “I cost more than I did” energy that we really appreciate around here.
No doubt about it, this wasn’t a home run hidden gem. But for a completely random bottle-o grab, it was a solid effort. It’s the sort of wine that if you found it in a 2 for $22 Shopa Docket deal, you’d feel pretty smug about your life choices.
So, is it a showstopper? Nah. But is it worth trying? Why not.
VITR Official Score: 7.5 / 10
👍 Reality vs Perception: $15 special, drinks like a $22 bottle. Purchase when discounted.
👩🎨 Label Aesthetics: Dark, simple and just moody enough to feel premium.
👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: He’d call it a little soft, but still enjoy this one.
🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: You should absolutely consider this if you want to have a Cab Sauv on the drinks list.
🤑 Keep the Change: Well, there's no change. You'll need to rummage around the pantry this time.
Real Talk
📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It
Foxy: Not a compliment. Think musty grape funk - more garage than glamour.
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💡 Sip Tip
Spit Happens: Swirling and spitting might look wanky, but it keeps your tastebuds sharp and your dignity intact. Classy as, really.
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🍿 Sip & Snack
Sauv Blanc & Hot Chips: Zingy meets salty. Like a beach day with seagulls you actually invited.
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Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷
Colossal Cave: dark label, mid-level price, and a decent reward for a random midweek bottle-o grab. Not a revelation, but definitely not a regret.
Ciao for now. 🍷
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