Zonte's Footstep 1st off the Rank Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 Wine Review

Natalie's Score: 93/100

Zonte's Footstep's 1st Off The Rank Cabernet Sauvignon from McLaren Vale is a bold, full-bodied red wine showcasing notes of blackcurrant, eucalyptus, dark chocolate and cedary oak. This dry, vegan-friendly wine displays polished tannins and concentrated fruit that will continue to develop over the next decade. Serve it at room temperature with a standing rib roast as the wine's structure cuts through the marbled beef, or pair it with aged cheddar and charcuterie where the wine's intensity complements the sharp cheese and cured meats. Winemaker Ben Riggs crafts this elegant Cabernet from McLaren Vale's iron-rich terra rossa soils, which impart distinctive minerality and depth to the fruit. The winery's quirky name pays homage to Zonte, the beloved family dog who would bound ahead on vineyard walks, always "first off the rank" to explore the rows. This Cabernet represents exceptional value from one of Australia's most exciting boutique producers and will cellar beautifully through 2036.

Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: roast beef dinner, turkey, ribs and burgers.

Terrific Turkey Wine

This Zonte's Footstep 1st off the Rank Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 was reviewed on December 20, 2025 by Natalie MacLean

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Please note that our reviews are based on a variety of sources: samples sent to our team, those we purchase in store, tasting events, those tasted in restaurants and while traveling domestically and internationally.

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