2021 Houghton ‘Jack Mann’ Cabernet Sauvignon

98 Points - Panel Decision, Wine Companion

“This is elegance personified. So smooth, so luscious, so rich and yet it finds levity and a sense of drive. Inky cassis, lavender and violet floral lift, fancy feeling mahogany and new leather elements, clove spice, bay leaf and faint sea spray characters in the mix. It feels quite tightly wound despite its velvety suppleness and flow, tannins in a web of fine, graphite-like mineral accents delivering tension and poise. It's a wine that delivers an experience and visceral pleasure. Drink now after a lusty decant, but save some for long cellaring, too. – Mike Bennie”

97 Points - Regan Drew, Wine Pilot

“The Icon release from Houghton’s Justin vineyard. Deep and profound with serious black and purple fruits over fresh turned earth, savoury black olive, liqueur cherry, baked blackberry tart, dried violets, a hint of graphite pencil and grated cooking chocolate richness. Mouth-filling black fruits with intense power and a firm grip. Lingering vanilla oak and mint varietal hints lead to opulence, class and balance with immediate appeal and a knowing structure of a 20 plus year cellaring. Drink: 2024-2044.”

96 Points - Steve Leszczynski, Qwine

“Superb Cabernet. Measured and precise, this Houghton Jack Mann is absolutely brilliant. Its savoury profile has me sitting bolt upright in attention. There is an endearing tomato leaf and roasted tomato trait that I gravitate to. Blackcurrants and blackberries entice early, before layers of licorice, dark chocolate, black olives and the expected Bay leaf muse. Almond nuttiness is partnered by basil and sage further enhancing the layers of interest. The concentration and balance are impeccable and then there is that length! A glorious example of Cabernet, sit back and embrace its beauty. Drink to ten years+.”