Winemaker Notes
One might think Cabernet Sauvignon is a classical, structured and well mannered wine, but in Two Hands's wonderful McLaren Vale Mediterranean climate they make it rich, brooding and powerful, underpinned by boundless energy. They call it their Sexy Beast, inspired by the cult classic movie starring Sir Ben Kingsley.
Professional Ratings
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Wine Enthusiast
A cherry-chocolate, black olive and peppery spice-and-herb nose opens, with earthy, savory undertones. It's mid-weight with a lovely lift of tangy acidity and well-placed chalky tannins, blackcurrant flavor lingering on the finish.
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Robert Parker's Wine Advocate
The 2023 Sexy Beast Cabernet Sauvignon is leafy and green on the nose, with cassis, tobacco, caper brine and tapenade. The palate is shaped by firm tannins that are a little sticky through the middle palate and finish, although they provide absolutely the right shape and feel. Classic McLaren Vale purple fruits and exotic spice mark its origins. 13.8% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
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Wine Spectator
This generous version showcases a crunchy, juicy thread. Dried sage, laurel bay leaf and mint complement the core of dark, dense wild blackberry, plum and huckleberry flavors, with a note of espresso, plus a hint of dried violet on the firm finish. Drink now through 2037.
A noble variety bestowed with both power and concentration, Cabernet Sauvignon enjoys success all over the globe, its best examples showing potential to age beautifully for decades. Cabernet Sauvignon flourishes in Bordeaux's Medoc where it is often blended with Merlot and smaller amounts of some combination of Cabernet Franc, Malbecand Petit Verdot. In the Napa Valley, ‘Cab’ is responsible for some of the world’s most prestigious, age-worthy and sought-after “cult” wines. Somm Secret—DNA profiling in 1997 revealed that Cabernet Sauvignon was born from a spontaneous crossing of Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc in 17th century southwest France.
Known for opulent red wines with intense power and concentration, McLaren Vale is home to perhaps the most “classic” style of Australian Shiraz. Vinified on its own or in Rhône Blends, these hot-climate wines are deeply colored and high in extract with signature hints of dark chocolate and licorice. Cabernet Sauvignon is also produced in a similar style.
Whites, often made from Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc tend to be opulent and full of tropical, stone and citrus fruit.