A bit leaner and leafier than the 2016, Cape Mentelle's 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon shows more of the region's characteristic herbal shadings of sage and bay leaf. The winery's trademark cedary oak overlays cassis and raspberry notes in this streamlined, smooth-textured, medium to full-bodied effort. The tannins are polished but firm, suggesting a couple of years in the cellar wouldn't be unwarranted.

Cape Mentelle's 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon boasts traditional claret-styled notes of cigar box (cedar and tobacco), alongside earth, cola and cassis. It's medium to full-bodied, with a smooth, silky feel on the palate and hints of raspberries and tea on the long, gently tannic finish. Looking at my notes and scores for previous vintages, I can't help but wonder if I'm being too tough on this admittedly excellent wine, or if it's maybe just too elegant for my personal tastes.

Plump, with ripe, soft currant and cherry flavors, accented by cedar, toast and spice notes and a hint of black walnut liqueur on a supple frame. Finishes with black tea and spice details. Drink now through 2030. 5,000 cases made, 1,000 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Western Australia / Margaret River Select to Add

Shows off a savory, herbal side brimming with rosemary and dusty sage notes that mingle with currant and plum flavors. The tannins are velvety and firm through the finish. Drink now through 2029. 80,000 cases made, 20,000 cases imported.??–MW??Region: Australia / Western Australia / Margaret River Select to Add

A fitting capstone to a recent mini vertical, the 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon marries elegant notes of pencil shavings and dark chocolate with fine herbal notes and ripe cassis fruit. It's built along the lines of the 2012, with ample weight and richness on the palate, loaded with soft, velvety tannins that lubricate the dark flavors as they glide effortlessly across the palate into a long, plush finish.