Comprised of 96% Cabernet Sauvignon and 4% Merlot, the 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in French oak, 40% new, and aged in oak for 18 months. It has a deep garnet-purple color and gives intense dark berry and earth scents, revealing notes of black currant cordial and dried plums over moss covered bark, fertile loam, truffles and black olives. Medium bodied and elegantly styled in the mouth, the intensity of complex flavors is nicely balanced by crisp enlivening acid and a medium-firm level of fine-grained tannins, finishing long and earthy. Approachable now, it should continue to evolve gracefully and cellar to 2022. Part of the large LVMH stable, Cape Mentelle has maintained its autonomy managing itself like the well established medium-large sized winery that it has become. Sourcing fruit largely from estate owned (it’s about 70% self-sufficient), well established vines is one of the secrets to their success as well as a great team, including Robert Mann, Tim Lovett and Simon Burnell at the winemaking helm. Having followed this property before LVMH days and when David Hohnen was in residence, in recent years I may hate the newly designed labels but remain a great fan of the wines. The Sauvignon / Semillon and Cabernet / Merlot are the real drivers of this winery in terms of volume, and very good value at that, though the Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon and Zinfandel (if you can find it) are the real jewels. Importer: Moet Hennessy USA, New York, NY.