Pertaringa Rifle & Hunt Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 from Bec Hardy in McLaren Vale is a bold, inky Cabernet that marries classic cassis richness with that coastal freshness the Vale does so well. This Pertaringa Rifle and Hunt Cabernet 2022 feels powerful yet polished, built for both hearty food and serious cellaring.

The nose speaks of blackcurrant, blackberries and mulberry with layers of cedar, leather, tobacco leaf, dark chocolate and dried herbs, plus a flick of well‑integrated French oak spice. The palate is dense and full‑bodied, loaded with cassis and dark berry fruit, lifted spice and subtle herbal notes, framed by firm, fine tannins and impressive length, showing why multiple critics have dropped it comfortably into the mid‑90s.

On the table, think slow‑cooked lamb shanks, roast lamb with rosemary, char‑grilled steak, rich beef stews or mushroom and thyme pie, where the structure and intensity can really flex. Aged cheddar, mature gouda or a truffle‑laced hard cheese also make cracking partners now, while the wine itself has the bones to evolve gracefully over a decade.