Showdown 'Man with the Ax' Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

This is a confident California Cabernet that doesn't hold back with the bold flavours. Sourced from Central Valley vineyards known for their plush, fruit-forward wines, it's packed with ripe blackberries and cassis, with a hint of cedar adding depth. Six months in oak rounds it out beautifully, bringing richness without overpowering the vibrant fruit. Firm tannins give it structure, but it stays effortlessly drinkable - a good balance of power and smoothness. Robust, intriguing, and unapologetically full, it's got serious presence and plenty of character.

A robust red that cries out for something deeply savoury - think slow-cooked, fall-apart beef or a generous slab of grilled steak. But don't stop there; a wedge of intensely dark chocolate wouldn't go amiss either.

Boutinot, the guys responsible for this wine, is a big name in the UK's wine scene and are behind many labels seen on shelves up and down the country. Paul Boutinot kicked things off in 1980, starting with importing wines and soon partnering with winemakers around the globe. They've been working with California growers for several years now with most of the range being sourced from fruit grown in the warm Lodi region. Their secret is in backing passionate winemakers who aren't afraid to push the envelope, always aiming for wines that really capture the essence of their regions. This, along with providing excellent value for money, is something they've really nailed.