1998 Howard Park Cabernet Cabernet Franc Merlot

[David Lole]

Deep blood red colour. Savoury scents predominate initially on the nose. With significant time in the glass the bouquet opened out revealing high calibre scents of cedar, blackcurrant, sandalwood and traces of provencal herb, mocha and bitter chocolate later. The balance of fruit and oak is nigh on perfect. The palate is of medium weight showing deepset blackcurrant fruit matched beautifully to spicy/malty oak, good acidity and carries the 14% alcohol with ease. Great length with the finest of tannin regimes embedded throughout the finish. A great effort. Rated - Excellent. 5-8 years may see it out, but why wait when something drinks so well now. The unbelievable run of reds continues

[kenzo]

Hi David,

Any thoughts on the '96? I've only tried a sole bottle of the '97 and was impressed (balance, delicacy), though perhaps not enough to justify the price (when many 2000 Bordeaux are available in the same price bracket).

Thanks in advance,

Simon

[David Lole]

Greetings Simon,

Didn't buy the '96 and '97, although no notes to refer to, I vaguely remember trying the '96 and thought it good but not great at the time. Sorry I can't be of any more help. '97 was a year I mainly avoided except for some Victorian reds - Giaconda and a few Yarra Valley's.

BTW, 'the unbelievable run of reds' refers to what I've tasted over the last week or so. Apologies for being so ambiguos in my post.