Coonawarra's famous terra rossa soil - that distinctive red clay over limestone - creates ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon that develops beautifully over time. The cool climate and unique terroir produce wines with structured tannins and balanced acidity, essential components for long-term cellaring. This 2020 Headmaster exemplifies these qualities with its fine tannin structure and intense fruit concentration, suggesting it will reward patient collectors for years to come.

The blackberry notes come from the ripe Cabernet Sauvignon fruit, intensified by Coonawarra's cool climate which allows for extended ripening periods. The coffee flavours emerge from the interaction between the wine's natural tannins and carefully selected oak treatment during maturation. As this wine ages, expect the primary fruit flavours to integrate further with these secondary characteristics, creating a more complex flavour profile where dark chocolate and espresso notes may become more prominent.

A 95-point score from Wine Orbit places this wine in the 'outstanding' category, indicating exceptional quality that stands well above average releases. Wine Orbit uses a rigorous 100-point scale where scores above 90 represent wines of superior character and complexity. Combined with the Gold Medal from Wine Showcase Magazine, these accolades suggest this Headmaster Cabernet represents exceptional value and craftsmanship from the School House winery.

Serve this wine at 16-18°C to allow its complex aromatics and full-bodied structure to shine. Decanting for 30-60 minutes before serving will help soften the tannins and allow the plum and cassis flavours to open up fully. The wine's intensity and spice notes make it an excellent match for grilled red meats, aged cheeses, or rich pasta dishes with mushroom-based sauces.

While this Cabernet is approachable now with its balanced structure, Coonawarra Cabernets typically hit their stride after 5-8 years of cellaring. The 2020 vintage should drink beautifully through 2028-2035, during which time the toasty oak will integrate further and the wine's power will develop greater elegance. For those who prefer more immediate gratification, the current intensity and fine tannin structure make it thoroughly enjoyable today with proper decanting.