2014 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
Dark red. Aromas of spiced plum, cocoa powder and exotic oak. Tactile, savory wine with very good subtle intensity to its dark berry, spicy oak and peppery herb flavors; hints of woodsmoke, earth and caramel give this wine an Old World element. Finishes with serious but fine-grained tannins and excellent persistence.
Critic scores
Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Neal Martin, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2014 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon is Helderberg fruit and includes one block of Cabernet Franc close to the winery (8% of the blend). It was matured in 60% new barriques for around 18 months and offers attractive blackberry, sage and sandalwood aromas on the nose, which is nicely focused and delineated. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, plenty of black fruit laced with black pepper, though I felt that there was a touch of jarring greenness on the finish (perhaps from the Cabernet Franc) that just knocks it a little of balance. Let's see how this shows in a year.