2014 Flametree Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

Matured in French oak for 14 months. Outstanding colour featuring an impenetrable black dark red core with a deep dark red black tinged hue. Alluring aromas of ripe blackcurrants and mulberries married to cedary tobacco characters blossom from the glass followed by notions of black olive and spicy bay leaf. Rich with a firm structured mouthfeel, flavours of ripe blackcurrants and mulberries  lead the charge pursued by infusions of cedary tobacco characters, bay leaf and spice. Dryish finish with a robust tannin structure asserting its presence giving the back palate a grippy feel. Excellent concentration and depth concluding with a long aftertaste of blackcurrant, mulberries, cedary tobacco characters, earthy bay leaf and spice.
Cellar 6-8 years.
Alc. 14%

Other Reviews…
This has become such a reliable performer it’s almost into ‘go to’ territory, even at the price.This release loads up with fruit but doesn’t leave the structure wanting. It’s a ‘fine wine’ first, a crowd pleaser second. Black olives, briary herbs, plenty of blackcurrant/redcurrant and the silk of melted dark chocolate. Gumleaf notes add lift. There’s a trace of bitterness to the aftertaste but extra time in bottle will smooth this over. Will perform well over the medium term and longer. Drink 2019-2035+
93+ points
Campbell Mattinson – The Winefront