I was reading on Andrew Caillard’s new site (the Vintage Journal, published alongside Angus Hughson, well worth a read) that the famous ’63 Mildara Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (aka the legendary Peppermint Pattie) had a liberal dose of McLaren Vale grapes in the blend, just to remind how good Vale Cabernet can be. This Richard Hamilton Hut Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2019 is only a cheapie, but it’s pretty easy going (if hardly the comparison to Peppermint Pattie).

Minty, blocky and dark berried McLaren Vale Cabernet that does a pretty neat varietal take, although plenty of eucalyptus too. I don’t mind this. It’s rough and tumble, but chunky as hell. Solid stuff with a mix of dark fruit and a proper line of savouriness. If it was more expensive I might feel less forgivable about the rawish finish, but otherwise, a solid recommendation.

Richard Hamilton Hut Block Cabernet Sauvignon 2019. Best drinking: good now and will still be alive in ten years. 17/20, 90/100. 14.5%, $26.99. Richard Hamilton website. Would I buy it? A glass.