Ripe but restrained, with a core of plum sauce, melted licorice, tar and braised fig held in check for now by ample fine-grained tannins. Licorice and black tea notes weave through the finish. Should unwind nicely in the near term. Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Malbec. Drink now through 2011. 1,975 cases made, 825 cases imported.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Stellenbosch / Stellenbosch Select to Add

The Proprietor’s Blend starts with an intriguing nose of sweet cedar, black currant and violet, followed by classic flavors of black fruit, leather and spice. Good tannins and minerality keep it elegant but ageable. An impressive balance of New and Old World styles.——S.K.(12/31/2009)—— 90