Always consistent this. A blend of 51% Cabernet, 37% Shiraz, 12% Merlot that spends 18 months in oak, with 70% French and the rest American. Did I ever tell you that I once came second in a blending contest at Wirra Wirra trying to make Church Block? Didn’t put in enough Merlot…

’14 was a tricky vintage for Vale Cab and this looks a bit spiky and lumpy. Red and black fruit on the nose with a dash of vanilla, the slightly rough-and-ready palate is just a bit aggressive and acid seems a bit high this year. Still, so much to chew on that you can’t help but admire this value red. Best drinking: 2018-2026. 16.8/20, 89/100. 14.5%, $20. Would I buy it? Not quite, but I’d recommend.