2014 Don Melchor
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Tasting notes
The 2014 Don Melchor is a lovely, understated, herbal-driven expression of the blend, beginning with minty, menthol-tinged aromas and the house style's characteristically toasty bouquet. The palate is elegantly rich and creamy yet admirably refined, exuding noticeably less ripeness than usual from the cooler harvest. It culminates in a delicate, elegantly drying finish and fine tannins supported by a last hint of toasted oak that is well integrated. There is certainly no reason to hold off on pulling corks, and I suspect this wine will perform best if enjoyed before its 20th birthday. It's composed of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon and 8% Cabernet Franc that aged 15 months in 65% new barrels, the balance second-use.
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Average Score
Jancis Robinson MW
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cabernet Franc. Aged for 15 months in French oak barrels (65% new, 35% second-use). Thick and rich and rather opulent. Then some dustiness on the end. Still very youthful. Toasty. Very appetising. (JR)
Cask sample to be bottled end of October 2015. Cool summer after a warm spring and a little dry. 8% Cabernet Franc. Broad and balsam and exciting. Real verve. Masses of life rather than simple fruit or ripeness. Masses of energy. Not masses of obvious alcohol. Long. Reverberant. Sinewy. (JR)