Le Riche Cabernet-Merlot

Decent, but not much to write home about really. Seemed a little diffuse and dilute for a better score. The straight Cabernet and Reserve are much better (and more expensive) wines. Only 13%abv, though does a a warm fuzzy kick in the finish. Nods a little to Bordeaux with it's restrained cigar-box notes, though eucalyptus note is giveaway New World signature. Drinking well now with 30 mins or so of air.

Haven't tasted this in a long time, but was pleasantly surprised. Had it with Lydia, Ron and Elizabeth. Had a really nice nose of red fruit. Didn't take notes but palate was very nice with pure red fruit, a vibrancy that caught my attention. It coated the mouth nicely with medium weight.

Decanting was the secret. Better after 3 hours than 2. Was presented as earthy but lots of fruit and I would agree. Nicer finish than many of the South African wines I've had.

Color: purple hue, dark, red rim Nose: red fruit, little cedar, chocolate, really nice nose, cherry, limestone, eucalyptus. Can smell terroir - soil in particular. Palate: wild cherry, earthy, cedar, dry, really nice balance, very lively, slight mint or eucalyptus. Day 2 Nose: much more limestone, gravel, not as much forward fruit Day 2 Palate: still good fruit, more limestone, still powerful wine. Will last at least 10 years.

Time to drink. Lost a little bit of its sparkle.