2017 Cape Mentelle Cabernet Sauvignon

James Halliday 95 Points

90/5/5% cabernet sauvignon/merlot/petit verdot. Hand-picked fruit, on skins for up to 91 days. Matured for 18 months in mainly French oak (10% Hungarian), 58% new. 2017 was cool and wet, yet here is responsible for a wine that is ripe and rich. The red fruit on the palate has both density and power, yet is nuanced by a soft, leafy, floral character. The palate is plush and bolstered by oak, which is making a significant impact right now, but the tannins remain fine. Clove bud and aniseed lace together through the finish. The length of flavour is the ultimate testament to quality here.