TN: CAPE MENTELLE Zinfandel 2005-WA

Attila · Post by **Attila** » Sat Mar 08, 2008 1:39 pm

I am a big fan of this monster, the legendary 1997 I brought to a dinner blew Adair off the table, the 2000 however was extremely disappointing. This new release 2005 offering is fantastic!

Colour black as night. Licorice, stewed black fruits on the nose. Complex, rich and varietal on the palate, the tannins are furry as a cat! Huge presence in the glass and palate, originally alcohol was at 16.7% but brought down to a civilized 15.5% before bottling. Interestingly, this Zinfandel is still very well balanced and tasty. Masses of black fruits, blood plums, chocolate and licorice. Full bodied and very long on the aftertaste.
Superb really, so drink now to 10 years. A gentle delicious monster without disguise. It is limited to some 1500 bottles so get some while you can.
AUD $50
95 points.

Just for the record, I've also tasted the ordinary 2006 Chardonnay this occassion and the unexciting 2004 Cabernet as well. The newly (first release) released 2006 Marsanne Roussanne however is a treat with beautiful richly sweet fruit flavours and an exciting palate. Now to 3 years.
AUD $25
93 points

Cheers,
Attila

Grant · Post by **Grant** » Sat Mar 08, 2008 4:35 pm

Atilla,

Did you think the 2006 Cape Mentelle Chardonnay was ordinary?

Cheers

Wayno · Post by **Wayno** » Sat Mar 08, 2008 5:09 pm

I would call it anything but ordinary, personally.

Attila · Post by **Attila** » Sat Mar 08, 2008 5:28 pm

Yes...it's from a very cool vintage and there were green, unripe characters which I didn't appreciate for the price at all.
Cheers,
Attila

Gary W · Post by **Gary W** » Sun Mar 09, 2008 9:41 am

Wayno wrote:I would call it anything but ordinary, personally.

I would call it extra-ordinary

Looking fwd to the zin and cabernet though.
GW