3 MONTHS AGO • 2 MIN READ

🥊 Kickstarting the Cab Sauv-Off: Is this the Winner? 🥊

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Vine In The Rough

Unearthing the best wines under $15, without the snooty wine talk. We’re here to prove that you don’t need a sommelier certification to enjoy a great bottle. From weeknight sips to dinner party picks, this is your friendly, down-to-earth newsletter in search for impressive yet affordable wines…and the ultimate "vine in the rough".

💎 Let the Cab Sauv-Off Begin! 💎

Cheers to the start of 2025. May it be a year you have plenty to celebrate.

This week kicks off our two-part showdown between Cabernet Sauvignon heavyweights. Think of it as a friendly taste test, or a highly unscientific wine-off. First up, we have a sibling of the Grant Burge Shiraz we reviewed way back in Issue 1. Will it live up to its Shiraz counterpart? Spoiler alert: it’s solid, and might just be the go-to red for your "I-don't-really-like-reds" mates.

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The Red for Your Everyday Shenanigans 🍷

🍷 Grant Burge Classic Collection Cabernet Sauvignon (2023)

Alright, let’s not overcomplicate things - this Cab Sauv is the mate who always brings a pack of Tim Tams to the BBQ: you’re never going to be disappointed to see it.

Pour yourself a glass, and you’ll notice it looks pretty swish, with its deep red colour giving off some serious “I mean business” energy. But don’t let the fancy pants appearance fool you, this wine is as approachable as a friendly neighbour asking you to bring in the bins while they're away.

Briefly touching on the flavours, this is a classic Cab Sauv, just as it says on the label. Smooth as blackcurrants and plums, with just a touch of spice to keep things interesting. Think of it as the wine version of a meat pie with a cheeky squirt of BBQ sauce...it’s simple, satisfying, and hits the spot.

This isn’t one of those wines that makes you feel like you need a diploma to enjoy it. It’s just good, honest drinking. The kind of red you crack open with a midweek meal or to enjoy while doom scrolling through streaming apps, only to choose a movie 10 minutes before bed.

Compared to the Grant Burge Shiraz from Issue 1, this Cab Sauv is the quieter sibling. The Shiraz was all “look at me” with its bold flavours, but this one’s more laid-back...a red for people who don’t even think they’re red drinkers. We're not saying it will knock your socks off, but for 8 bucks, it’s the perfect bottle to have on standby for casual dinners, catch-ups, or just a solo glass on the couch.

VITR Official Score: 8 / 10

👍 Reality vs Perception: This no-fuss Cab Sauv that gets the job done without any drama isn't going to pass itself off as premium, but $20 would be a fair assessment.

👩‍🎨 Label Aesthetics: Nothing to Instagram about, but not so bad it’ll make your friends think you found it under the sink. (Yes, that's a copy/paste from Issue 1...but let's be real, the labels are practically identical).

👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: Nonno would call it a "city wine" but probably sneak a glass when no one’s looking.

🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: You'd have to seriously consider this one given it's great for gatherings where you want something everyone will enjoy.

🤑 Keep the Change: Don't keep the change...get two instead!


Real Talk

📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It

Black Currant Notes: Basically the vibe a classic Cab Sauv is going for.

💡 Sip Tip

Don’t overfill: Fill your glass no more than a third full as it allows room to swirl and release aromas. Want to drink more? Get bigger glasses!

🍿 Sip & Snack

Chianti & Spaghetti Bolognese: It’s an Italian classic for a reason, you really can't go wrong.


Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷

So there you have it - our first contender in the “Cab Sauv-Off.”

Next week, we’ll put a South African Cab Sauv in the spotlight and see how it stacks up. In the meantime, grab a bottle of this one and let us know what you think.

P.S. Have a wine-loving friend? Don’t be shy, share the love and forward this on! 🍷

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Vine In The Rough

Unearthing the best wines under $15, without the snooty wine talk. We’re here to prove that you don’t need a sommelier certification to enjoy a great bottle. From weeknight sips to dinner party picks, this is your friendly, down-to-earth newsletter in search for impressive yet affordable wines…and the ultimate "vine in the rough".