Product Description:

Complex aromas of raspberry and blackcurrant blend with hints of vanilla and subtle pepper, cedar, and leather. On the palate, it is a fresh, elegant, and enveloping wine with soft tannins and a persistent finish. User notes often highlight classic cassis, earthy loam, cocoa, maraschino cherry, cola, and tobacco, with a silky texture and medium-to-full body. It’s described as mature but lively, with integrated tannins and a long finish, reflecting the century-old vines and granitic soils of Apalta.

Food Pairings:

Pairs well with rich, hearty dishes such as beef, game, rustic barbecues, and braised short ribs. Its bold structure complements grilled meats, spicy sauces, or aged cheeses.

Critics Reviews:

• Aggregated critic score: 91/100 (from 3 critics). User ratings on platforms like CellarTracker average around 91-93 points, with praise for its maturity and balance. Specific notes include: “Intense and rich wine still in great form” (91 points, 2024); “Classic cassis with earthy loam and cocoa notes… magnificent” (93 points, 2022); “Large-scaled, classical style, dusty and cedary… very good length” (92 points, 2019). Some bottles show variability, with one 2023 review noting it had “fallen apart.”

Drink Window:

• At peak maturity as of the early 2020s, with recommendations to drink now (through 2025 or so). By 2026, it may be past prime for some bottles, showing signs of decline in flawed examples, but well-stored ones remain enjoyable. Wouldn’t recommend holding further.

Serving Temperature:

• 16-18°C (60-65°F), typical for bold red blends like this to allow aromas and tannins to open without excess warmth.