Jacob’s Creek, Australia () Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

 I’m not sure I’ve tasted a wine bearing an appellation that embraces an entire continent, but I’m entirely sure I’ve never tasted a better wine under such a designation.  This is real Cabernet with real textural guts and flavor, plus excellent faithfulness to the flavor profile of the variety, all at a remarkably low price.  Dark berry fruit is punchy but pure, with just a touch of oak shading, yet it wouldn’t need a stronger wood signature to prove convincing.  Wines like this are among the best reasons for having wines judged blind by seasoned tasters in a wine competition:  Over-achievers that would otherwise fly under the radar (including my radar, I confess) have a fair chance to show their strength.