An interesting tasting of 3 Cabernets

7 Nov 2015: We compared 3 Cabernet-Sauvignon dominated wines from 3 different countries. They were 1995 Leeuwin Estate Cabernet Sauvignon (Export Lot 98), 1993 Maya, Dalla Valle, 1990 Gruaud Larose.

1995 Leeuwin Estate, Margaret River: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, with the balance made up of Merlot and Malbec. 14% abv.  

Intense blackberry, black cherry notes, with sweet tobacco (cigar) and bacon notes.  Gradually some minty character emerged, with aeration.  Balanced acidity, mellow but still firm tannin, vibrant palate, a very elegant long finish.  Still plenty of energy. 

1993 Maya, Dalla Valle, Napa Valley: 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 45% Cabernet Franc.  13.5% abv.

Initial bouquet was spicy with notes of cinnamon and cardamom, dark cherry and blueberry notes, with sweet plum and kirsch, hot pebbles, almost port-like.  Soft chewy tannin.  With aeration, medicinal, herbaceous notes emerged. Slight disharmonious burning alcohol finish.

1990 Gruaud Larose, Saint Julien, Bordeaux: 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc, 3% Petit Verdot. 12.5% abv. 20 months maturation in oak.

Quintessential aged claret nose of cedar, smokey cigar box, sweet spice, vanilla.  Almost sweet on entry, with mellow tannin, balanced and complex finish, just lacking in energy.

All were tasted blind and it was interesting that most of us voted for the 1995 Leeuwin Estate!