Hither & Yon's Malbec 2022 shows the plush, dark-fruited style McLaren Vale's warmth tends to bring out in this variety. It is deep purple-black in the glass, almost opaque at the core, with a density that hints at the richness to come before the first sip.

Blackberry, plum and dark chocolate dominate the nose, with a faint violet lift underneath softening the darker fruit, and a touch of black pepper spice that shows itself on the finish. The palate is full and generous, with velvety, well-rounded tannin that gives richness without hardness, and a plush, mouth-coating texture that carries the fruit all the way through to the back of the palate.

The finish is long and fruit-driven, with dark berry lingering well after the last sip, and only a gentle grip of tannin left behind.

Pair it with a char-grilled steak, slow-braised short rib or hard cheese, where its richness and tannin have something substantial to work against.

It is generous enough to enjoy now, with enough structure underneath to comfortably hold for a few more years.