Masters of Wine, Giles Cooke & Fergal Tynan met in a bar the night before they began the first year of the Master of Wine course in 1998. Both subsequently passed the exam and eventually came to work together, founding Thistledown in 2010.

Benchmark Cabernet aromas of cassis, herbs and subtle hints of mocha. Lovely balance, rich fleshy fruit with a well-structured, lengthy finish.

Superb Cabernet from a dreadfully underrated region. Curious name, though I am sure that the team had its reasons. A fine vintage, the grapes were harvested early, marginally before ripeness, to ensure the retention of freshness, while the use of whole berries in the ferment maintains vibrancy. Vivid purple. The nose is immediately alluring. There is a hint of an oaky note but well integrated, with toast and vanilla notes. Cloves, chocolate, bay leaves, black fruits, licorice and cassis. The palate is seamless, the flavours delicious. Excellent length here, through to silky tannins. A full-flavoured, rich and plush wine, with good structure, offering great drinking now and sure to continue over the next five to six years. A very fine example of a warmer climate Cabernet . Drink to: 2022 - 2028; Price: $22.00; Rating: 93 Points; Ken Gargett