Notch up this Oates Ends Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 as another top shelf Margaret River Cabernet from Cath Oates, just like previous high quality releases (like this one).

Maybe a little more shy and less grandiose than the 2016 iteration, trading in a little bay leaf and mint over that solid core of dark fruit. Less obvious oak this year, still a cool and sophisticated personality. Mid weight and not forceful, it’s make a point with understatement and finesse, the tight palate slowly uncoiling in bottle. Already fine, but the best is yet to come. Best drinking: wait 2-3 and then for 15 years easy. 14%, $50. 18.5/20, 94/100+. Oates Ends website. Would I buy it? More than fair investment at this price. Worth a bottle for sure.