Stella Bella 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon (Margaret River)

Like Leeuwin Estate, Stella Bella lies in the southern part of Margaret River where climes are a little cooler and wines a tad fresher. This approachable red berry and floral example shows a fair lick of toasted, coconut oak but it's tucked in with savory graphite and warm earth tones. The freshness element is especially felt on the palate, where acidity lifts the fruit into crunchiness, cinched by spicy sinewy tannins. The oak does get a bit blocky here but all is forgiven thanks to those interestingly textured tannins and bright fruit. Drink now through 2027. Christina Pickard