The taut tannins carry cedar, vanilla, cocoa and currant flavors through the minerally finish, which sports a nice tangy edge. Opens up somewhat in the glass. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. Drink now through 2008. 12,500 cases made, 2,000 cases imported.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Paarl Select to Add

Glen Carlou’s wines are far from shy and this delicious Meritage from Paarl has all of the bold notes you’d expect from this producer. The nose is elegant, with waves of cinnamon, tobacco and spice, and on the palate, flavors of red berry, spice and smoke are distinctive but harmonious. This is a wine that will continue to unfold as it ages.——S.K.(12/15/2007)—— 91