Coonawarra's famous terra rossa soil - that distinctive red earth over limestone - creates Cabernet Sauvignon with a unique leafy, earthy signature that's instantly recognisable. This geological foundation, combined with the region's cool climate, allows the grapes to develop intense fruit concentration while maintaining natural acidity. The 2020 Majella perfectly showcases this terroir with its characteristic eucalyptus and mint notes threading through the rich blackcurrant fruit.

The 2020 vintage shows excellent cellaring potential thanks to its fine, dry tannin structure and balanced acidity. While drinking beautifully now, this wine will continue to evolve and integrate over the next decade, with the oak influence softening and secondary flavours of leather and tobacco becoming more prominent. The key is proper storage in a cool, dark place with consistent temperature - around 12-15°C is ideal.

New French oak barrels impart stronger vanilla, spice and toast flavours, while seasoned (previously used) barrels contribute more subtle woody notes and allow the fruit to shine through. Majella's blend of both creates complexity without overwhelming the wine's natural character. French oak is prized for its tight grain structure, which allows gentle micro-oxygenation and adds elegant tannins rather than the more aggressive flavours sometimes found in American oak.

The wine's robust tannin structure and rich fruit concentration make it perfect for red meat dishes that can match its intensity. Think slow-cooked lamb shanks, grilled ribeye steak, or aged hard cheeses like vintage cheddar. The earthy Coonawarra characteristics also complement mushroom-based dishes beautifully. The key is matching the wine's weight and intensity - delicate fish or chicken would be overwhelmed by this powerful style.

The 2020 vintage was exceptional across Australia due to ideal growing conditions - a mild, dry summer with cool nights that preserved natural acidity while allowing full flavour development. Many regions experienced perfect harvest conditions without the extreme heat or smoke issues that can affect other years. For Coonawarra specifically, 2020 produced wines with exceptional fruit concentration and structural integrity, making it a standout year that will be remembered for decades.