2018 Mullineux & Leeu Family Wines, Leeu Passant, Dry Red Wine, Western Cape, South Africa
- Red
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- Cabernet Sauvignon
- Jancis Robinson MW
- 16+/20
- Neal Martin
- 93/100
- Tim Atkin MW
- 94/100
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Description
The palate feels full-bodied, layered and intense yet there is a freshness and finesse here that is unusual in many New World Bordeaux blends; there is a sense that the Cinsault is calming things down, adding sophistication and lift. A gravel minerality runs through the core, reminiscent of Left Bank, whilst the softness and richness of fruit has more in common with the Right. The quality of the corduroy-like tannins is excellent; they have initial grip before dissolving into soft powder and melting on the tongue, yet the wine has a tight edge to it, suggesting a few more years are required for the palate to mellow.
The long, rewarding finish is dominated by a concentrated, juicy blueberry and black cherry pie character and feels extremely pure. This is an elegant, sophisticated South African Bordeaux blend from the Mullineux winemaking masters at Leeu Passant. Only 900 cases were made.
Catriona Felstead MW, Senior Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd
Critics reviews
Mid to deep garnet. Already quite nicely integrated nose with a hint of oyster shells, though the palate is a bit suddenly pinched on the end. This is so much more youthful than the 2018 Franschhoek Cinsault from the same stable! This is well made but considerably less distinctive than the Cinsault 2018. There seems to have been a real effort to master the tannins but they do rather dominate the cassis fruit at the moment.
Drink 2022 - 2028
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon has a fragrant bouquet of dark berry fruit, Earl Grey and light wet clayey aromas, quite complex and engaging. The palate is very well defined and classic in style, with a lightly spiced opening and white pepper and sage developing later. There is just the right amount of dryness toward the finish to get the saliva flowing. Classy.
Drink 2022 - 2038
The Dry Red is something of a tribute to the Cape blends of the mid-20th century, with Cabernet Sauvignon partnered by 21% Cabernet Franc and 16% Cinsault. Floral aromas lead into a palate that's firm and grippy, with dark berry fruit, some underlying freshness and toasty 30% new wood.
Drink 2021 - 2027
Registered company 05492886. BB&R Limited, trading as Berry Bros. & Rudd, 3 St James's Street, London, SW1A 1EG. All rights reserved. You must be 18 or over to order. Calls may be recorded.
