Looking back, the first vintage of this wine I reviewed was the 2003. It has remained a consistent bottle, some vintages outshine others but all are suited to hearty dishes.

It is a solid and savoury red blend of Merlot, Cabernet and Shiraz, which exhibits classic South African style - Old World character juxtaposed with New World fruit.
The nose provides spicy cassis and black plums, a whiff of blueberry and espresso layered with grilled herbs, toasted black pepper, leather and bittersweet chocolate. The palate has very good structure, it's fresh and spicy with meaty, smoked flavours, pepper, black fruit, roasted carob and toasted oak. The tannins are supple but it's still a wine for food; hard cheeses, grilled sausage, pasta with meat sauce or grilled Portobello mushrooms will all pair nicely.
©copyright 2013 Daenna Van Mulligen
Wine Scores Reviewed - August 1st, 2013