2008 De Toren Z

Stephen Tanzer
"91 pts ... A five-variety Bordeaux blend based on 45% Merlot and 27% Cabernet Sauvignon; the 15% Malbec component was aged in American oak): Good deep red with ruby tones. Sexy aromas of blackberry, spices and violet. Suave, sweet and deep, with lovely integrated acidity contributing to the wine's seamless texture. Offers considerable early appeal but has the structure for aging too, finishing with savory, firm-edged tannins. Very much in a Right Bank style, unusual for a Bordeaux blend in South Africa."

Winemaker's Notes
"This wine expresses very delegate undertones of orange zest. A second wave of flavours announces prunes, cinnamon, perfumed rose peddles and sweet red fruit leaves one in anticipation for this liquid to touch the tongue. The palate is treated to a well integrated tannin structure with expressive tones of hazelnut, black currant and rounded off with a mineral finish and fresh acidity that will see this wine have a lot to offer in the future, if carefully stored. The aftertaste leaves a lingering impression that captivates the mind."

Technical Notes
"45% Merlot/27% Cabernet Sauvignon/15% Malbec/7% Cabernet Franc/6% Petit Verdot. Aged in a climatized barrel room (16 degrees Celsius at 80% humidity) for 12 months in 225L French and American Oak. Malbec had the benefit of American Oak. 14.5% alc."