2008 Mitolo Cabernet Sauvignon Serpico
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Tasting notes
Heady, overripe, jammy, a bit of VA too. Spice and peppers gives some dimension. Not subtle, but not crude either. (RH)
Critic scores
Richard Hemming MW, jancisrobinson.com
Lisa Perrotti-Brown MW, Wine Advocate
More reviews and scores
The 2008 Serpico was made in the Amarone method from grapes picked at around 12.5% and semi-dried slowly, finishing at around 15% alcohol. In 2008 it managed to side-skirt the heat as it was picked early. It was matured for 9 months in 100% new barriques, 90% French. Very deep garnet-purple colored, it gives pronounced notes of creme de cassis, Christmas cake, plum pudding, anise, cassia and nutmeg. The rich, full-bodied flavors are very spicy on the palate, off-set by crisp acid and medium-firm fine tannins, finishing with persistent, somewhat savory flavors of mincemeat and marmite toast. Drink this one 2013 to 2022+. Aided by top McLaren Vale winemaker Ben Glaetzer, Frank Mitolo continues to forge a fantastic range of individually styled wines. Importer: Vintus Wines, NY, NY; tel. (914) 769 3000, www.vintuswines.com