Castelli Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 from Frankland River in WA’s Great Southern is a cracking cool–climate cabernet, marrying plush black fruits with serious structure in a very polished, modern Australian style. This Castelli Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 shows why Frankland River has such a big reputation for cabernet, balancing power, freshness and detail beautifully.

On the nose, expect a pretty lift of cassis, blackberries and blackcurrant, with ripe cherry, tobacco and a subtle herbal edge of sage and thyme giving extra complexity. The palate is elegant yet concentrated – blackcurrant and plum at the core, framed by fine cedar spice, hints of cocoa and graphite–like tannins, all kept in line by refreshing, cool–climate acidity that promises excellent mid–term cellaring. It’s the sort of cabernet that delivers both immediate pleasure and the bones to reward a few years in the cellar.

Food–wise, this is spot–on with chargrilled Scotch fillet, roast lamb with rosemary, beef short ribs or a rich lentil and mushroom bake where the tannin and acidity cut through the richness. It will also sing with aged cheddar or hard pecorino, making it a ripping choice for Sunday roasts or a proper cheese board when you want a serious yet approachable Great Southern cabernet on the table.