Brothers in Arms Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 Review – A Composed Cabernet from Langhorne Creek
We opened this over lunch on a cold, rainy winter’s day, drawn to the name, the label, and the warmth of a Cabernet Sauvignon. Langhorne Creek isn’t a region we reach for often, but Brothers in Arms carries a reputation for estate-grown depth and a few quiet cult hits (Killibinbin, for one). We weren’t sure what to expect—bold, rustic, overbuilt? Or something else entirely?
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Vintage: |
2020 |
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Region: |
Langhorne Creek, SA |
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Varietal: |
Cabernet Sauvignon |
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ABV: |
14.5% |
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RRP: |
~$35–45 AUD |
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Format: |
750mL |
Appearance
In the glass, the 2020 Brothers in Arms Cabernet Sauvignon shows a deep crimson core with ruby highlights at the rim—more red than purple, especially under overcast light. It has clear, medium depth; not opaque, but richly toned throughout the bowl.
Swirling reveals fast, well-formed legs that run freely down the glass, suggesting both weight and alcohol. Visually clean, youthful, and measured in style.
Aroma / Nose
Before swirling, the nose leans savoury and structured: spice, oak, and a hint of ferment-like wildness that suggests open-tank winemaking. The fruit is present, but waiting in the wings.
With air, the fruit steps forward—dark, ripe, and fresh—woven into firm oak. There’s a touch of cedar or cigar box, and a clear sense of depth. The alcohol feels well-managed. The wine doesn’t push too hard; it builds.
Palate / Taste
Fruit arrives early—rich, almost sweet—before giving way to tannins that gradually grip the cheeks and gums. There’s a soft beginning followed by a more structured mid-palate.
Dry and moderately acidic, the balance is well held. Oak remains steady throughout but doesn’t overwhelm. This is a wine of progression—fruit, then shape, then finish.
Finish
The structure holds. Tannins and acidity fade with composure, leaving behind a quiet echo of fruit and spice. Oak lingers but has softened. It’s a restrained conclusion—confident without being showy.
Food Pairing
Tasted with small bites and simple accompaniments:
Edam softened the wine’s edges. Oak and tannins mellowed, and while the fruit didn’t sweeten, it settled into place.
Cheddar brought structure back. Tannins and acidity lifted slightly, amplifying the cheese.
Persian feta echoed that cheddar effect but added a mild fruity aftertaste.
Wagyu beef slices were the standout. The oak seemed to wrap around the palate—warm and balanced.
Dried apricot and figs lifted acidity but stayed in harmony.
The wine proved flexible—structured enough for savoury food, gentle enough to stay composed with subtle or sweet notes.
ATC Verdict: Is It Worth the Splurge?
This is a well-made Cabernet with a gentler presence than most in its category. It doesn’t demand attention, but it earns respect. The fruit is generous but never overdone. The oak is assertive but never harsh. And with food, it shows its range—softening, lifting, adapting.
It’s not a centrepiece wine, but it’s one you’d be happy to pour for friends or reach for on a cool evening.
A safe pour with something to say.
Editor’s Note
This bottle came from our own cellar, not as part of any sponsorship. Brothers in Arms is a family-owned estate in Langhorne Creek with a long-standing focus on single-vineyard Cabernet.
We tasted it over lunch on a cold, rainy winter’s day, alongside a spread of cheeses, wagyu slices, and dried fruit. The review reflects that session, though we’d be curious to see how it performs with richer, saucier dishes—Chinese takeaway or wood-fired pizza might bring out another side.
–Adrian – Editor at All That Is Cool
Please drink responsibly.
All alcohol reviews on All That Is Cool are intended for audiences aged 18+. We support mindful, moderate consumption and only feature bottles we’ve personally tasted and evaluated.
