Coonawarra's famous terra rossa soil over limestone creates ideal drainage and mineral complexity that gives Cabernet Sauvignon its signature eucalyptus and mint characteristics. This wine exemplifies the region's ability to produce structured, age-worthy Cabernets with intense cassis flavours and firm tannins. The cool climate allows for extended ripening, developing the complex interplay of fresh red fruits and darker, more developed flavours that Coonawarra is renowned for.

While this wine is drinking beautifully now with its vibrant fruit expression, the firm tannin structure and full body suggest excellent cellaring potential of 8-12 years. The oak integration and developing secondary flavours of coffee and chocolate indicate it's entering an optimal drinking window, but patient collectors will be rewarded as the tannins soften and tertiary flavours emerge. Consider drinking half now and cellaring the remainder until 2028-2032.

The wine's robust tannins and rich fruit concentration make it perfect for red meat dishes that can match its intensity. Try it with grilled ribeye, lamb shanks, or aged hard cheeses where the protein and fat will soften the tannins beautifully. The cedar and coffee notes also complement dishes with earthy mushrooms or herbs like rosemary, while the blackcurrant flavours enhance game meats and rich, tomato-based sauces.

The 95-point Wine Orbit score and Gold Medal recognition reflect exceptional winemaking and vintage conditions that produced outstanding fruit quality. These accolades indicate the wine demonstrates perfect varietal character, regional typicity, and technical excellence in balance and structure. Such consistent recognition across multiple judging panels suggests this represents exceptional value and quality within premium Australian Cabernet Sauvignon.

Decant this wine 1-2 hours before serving to allow the firm tannins to soften and the complex aromatics to fully develop. Serve at 16-18°C in large Bordeaux-style glasses that concentrate the intense cassis and cedar aromas. The full-bodied nature means it benefits from breathing time, which will reveal the layered fruit-leather and chocolate notes while mellowing the initial tannin grip.