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Cape Mentelle Wilyabrup Margaret River Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Cabernet Franc

This is a Cape Mentelle of tightly coiled restraint and classical elegance. Its medium hue is not particularly deep for this warm vintage, reflecting its understated alcohol and well-tempered palate weight. Layers of crunchy red- and blackcurrants coast effortlessly through an impressively long finish, charged by tangy acidity and superfine tannins of mouth filing structure. This is a second label cabernet blend with the longevity, self-assurance and sheer poise of many premier wines. $41 at Wine Cow (2011).