2019 Two Hands Sexy Beast McLaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon

"Often overlooked in the Two Hands lineup because it's McLaren Vale Cabernet, the 2019 Sexy Beast Cabernet Sauvignon is a solid example of the variety at a realistic price. Hints of tea-like herbals and floral notes accent cassis on the nose, while the medium-bodied palate is crisp, linear and streamlined, coming to a long, focused finish framed by dusty tannins." Drink 2020 - 2026

"Thick set, broad shouldered, punchy and brooding and dark. Choc-berry, blackcurrant juice, some liquorice, light caramel notes and cinnamon dusted on the whole lot. Slippery texture, finishes long and with a building chomp of tannins. Oozey, gooey red of good quality here." Drink 2020 - 2025

"McLaren Vale cabernet is an outlier. The semi-arid maritime region boasts a distinct Mediterranean climate out of synch, at least supposedly, with cab's maturation patterns. And yet there is always a je ne sais quoi freshness amidst the inky warmth. There are inevitably strong varietal reference points from the black currant, spearmint and sage. A warmer black olive and salt bush note, too, rears amidst it all, but the result is satisfying, rich and nourishing, at its best. This is no exception."