Wakefield Estates (known as Taylors Wines in its native land of Australia) produces nine ranges of wines. With the Jaraman class, the aim is to showcase the diversity of Australia’s iconic wine regions. As far as those regional characteristics go for its Cabernet Sauvignon release, the annual goal is to harness the ripe fruit flavours of the Clare Valley and balance it “with the elegant, fine tannins, lifted mint character and velvety finish of the Coonawarra” region.

The result is a wine I can consistently nail in blind tastings—so recognizable are its distinct (and appealing) characteristics. Here’s a look at the latest edition of this rock-solid wine.

Wakefield 2018 Jaraman Cabernet Sauvignon — South Australia ($24.95)
A very good vintage of what is already a perennially winning blend of fruit from two prime South Australia locations (56% Clare Valley, 44% Coonawarra Valley). The first thing that always springs to mind when I nose this wine is After Eight dark chocolate dinner mints—yes, its herbal nature is that distinct. Aromas of dark fruit (blackberry, blackcurrant and blueberry), cassis and tobacco all meld together in a supporting role. There’s more of that dark fruit and a dusting of dark chocolate on the fleshy, silky palate, while the tannins are medium at most. The alcohol is once again listed at 14.5%, but, as is typical with this cabernet, there’s no hint of it being that strong on either the nose or palate. The fact that it’s a great looking label only adds to its gift-ability. 91