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Tasting notes
The 2011 Rabelais is a blend of 90% Cabernet Sauvignon and 10% Petit Verdot, and represents a barrel selection from particular parcels. Matured in new French oak for 20 months, there is a touch of incense on the tightly-wound nose that is nicely detailed, unfolding with cedar and tobacco but perhaps never quite engaging fifth gear. The palate is medium-bodied with taut tannin and well-judged acidity. This is a harmonious Cabernet Sauvignon, somewhat "classic" in style for Stellenbosch with an appealing, Graves-like finish that has just the right amount of austerity without compromising fruit intensity.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
(14.85% alcohol; 2007 was the first vintage for this label; 90% Cabernet with 10% Petit Verdot, aged for 20 months in 80% new French oak): Good medium ruby. Deep aromas of cassis, dark chocolate and graphite. Plush, powerful and a bit unrefined, but the wine's fruit-driven sweetness (2.8 g/l r.s.) is already apparent. Still needs some time in bottle to lose its baby fat. Finishes with rich, ripe, horizontal tannins.