The 2021 Bin 169 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon is the premium Cabernet in the range that matured in French oak (16 months, 51% new) and (70% American oak), and as a result, perhaps unsurprisingly, it is the more elegant wine of the pair on release. You get leafy cassis, raspberry, red apple skins, ferrous notes, pomegranate molasses, tobacco and some bay leaf—very pleasing. An intensely powerful wine, it's robust in its way but lithe too. 14.5% alcohol, sealed under natural cork.

With presence and poise in spades, this classically styled and refined 2021 Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon offers seamless aromas of cassis, graphite and dried herbs featuring beautifully integrated oak. Tightly framed cedar flavors are currently prominent against a backdrop of sinewy tannins that drive a lengthy finish. This is a very serious Cabernet showcasing this classy Coonawarra vintage.