TN: Ashbrook Cabernet Merlot 2015

[Waiters Friend]

This was my tasting note from a vertical nearly a year ago:

Ashbrook Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2015 (Cabernet Sauvignon 77%, Merlot 10%, Cabernet Franc 6%, Petit Verdot 7%) 14% alc
Purple in colour, crimson rim. Black, blue and red fruits on the nose, with savoury characters of oak and development in support. More tomato leaf and some oregano. The palate seems quite concentrated, but focussed more on the Cabernet Sauvignon fruit characters rather than the blending components. It’s medium- to full-bodied, with drying tannins and has a similar finish to the 2017.

The wine has changed a little in the intervening time. The nose is complex, with dried herbs, blackcurrant / cassis, dark plum, and a touch of vanilla. The red fruits have diminished. The palate definitely now shows more of the blending components, especially the Cab Franc. The wine has softened somewhat, but still has firmness of structure. It's evolving - we'll see what another couple of years brings.

Cheers
Allan

[Waiters Friend]

Another three years on, and this wine has changed a little again.

The nose is now showing even more dried herbs, especially rosemary and oregano, while the dark fruits are less intense and forward than previously. Red fruits are almost absent, but there is some lovely mocha here. It's a pleasing combination of herbs, delicate fruit sweetness and choc / vanilla.

The palate is where the red fruits start to emerge, with slightly tart raspberry alongside the darker fruits. Oak is largely integrated by now, and only shows in the modest tannic grip. Acid provides some juiciness to the wine, and is provoking the saliva in a mouthwatering fashion. It's medium bodied, and finishes reasonably long.

Overall, a satisfying wine, and showing some complexity without being overly powerful. Lots happening here, in small quantities, and all in balance.

Cheers
Allan

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