2018 Crabitey
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Tasting notes
The 2018 Crabitey has a tightly wound, kelp-infused bouquet that will need a few months to unfold. The palate is medium-bodied with firm tannins. There is a nagging green/pyrazine note that indicates that there may have been a lot of underripe fruit in the mix. It just juts out on the finish. Maybe that will be assimilated with bottle age; I am not sure if I am overly enthused about finding out.
Critic scores
Average Score
Julia Harding MW, jancisrobinson.com
Jancis Robinson MW
More reviews and scores
Arnaud de Butler signs the front label. 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot. Vegan-friendly. Bright, healthy dark garnet. Solid dense nose with some freshness and very fluid fruit on the palate with some light tannins on the end. (JR)
The 2018 Crabitey is a soft, fruity Graves with lovely depth and textural resonance. Succulent dark cherry, leather, licorice, spice and chocolate give the wine its racy, lush feel.
First vintage when they have included Petit Verdot from their 6-year-old vines. 6% Petit Verdot with 47% each of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Barrel sample. Deepest cherry red. Smells dark but really fresh in fruit character, and there’s chewy texture but notable freshness even with all this rich dark fruit. Harmony and no sign of the alcohol intruding. Dry finesse. Top marks for freshness in a vintage which often seems to lack it. (JH)