Joseph Moda Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2021, McLaren Vale, AUD $90
This cabernet is a decadent and lavishly styled wine. Inspired by northern Italy’s Veneto, where the grapes for the amarone wines are dried to desiccation (which amps their intensity and tannins) and then fermented. This grand red is a stunning example of the cool and spicy 2021 vintage. If you can find an aged bottle of Moda for Christmas lunch, you’re in luck!
Opaque ruby red. Christmas cake spice, cassis and vanilla notes flood the senses. The palate is saturated with blackberry, vanilla and inky tones: incredibly intense. There’s density but also freshness to temper. It still seems very youthful and needs time for the tannins to meld and tertiary notes to appear. Great ageing potential. (Screwcap)
Score: 95 ★★★★★ – view original tasting note
Alcohol: 14.5%
Ageing: now to 2028
Food: slow-cooked lamb shoulder with potato gratin and pickles
Stockists: The Wine Collective and Your Wines online (AU only)
Ranked: #9 of 36 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon blends from South Australia
Awarded: Top Rank
Wine Classification: 1 Merit
This Article was originally published on The Real Review
