Capbern 2019

Very deep purple-black in color, the 2019 Capbern explodes from the glass with notes of prunes, baked black cherries and fruitcake plus suggestions of mocha, Chinese five spice, tobacco leaf and cedar chest with a touch of peppercorns. Full-bodied, rich and voluptuous (15.1% alcohol!), the palate has a firm, chewy backbone and just enough freshness, finishing long and spicy.

This is a gorgeous young sample with wonderful blue fruit and spices, as well as a nice overlay of pretty wood. Medium to full body and firm, silky tannins. Hints of minerals. Better than 2018.

Capbern is bold and exuberant in 2019. Black cherry, plum, chocolate, new leather, licorice and spice are kicked up a few notches here. Exuberant and racy to the core, Capbern is a total knock-out in this vintage. At 15.1% alcohol, this is an especially unctuous, rich and ripe style, but it works well in this vintage for this cru.

The 2019 is a blend of 69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot and 1% Petit Verdot - this is 10% more Cabernet Sauvignon than usual. Yields were close to the 2018 at 40hl/ha. The wine will be aged for 18 months in 60% new French oak. Deep purple in the glass with an exotic nose of cassis and blackberry. The palate follows with the rich and dark fruit making for an impressive and opulent wine, the oily fruit matching the silky and integrated tannins. A real crowdpleaser that should drink well from a fairly early stage.

69% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 1% Petit Verdot. Barrel sample.
Deep colour to the rim. Powerful, even burly with added muscle this year. Dense fruit with a raisined edge to the aroma. Palate rich, broad and packed with tannin. Hope the fruit will hold. Dry, firm finish. (JL) 15.1%
Drink 2027 – 2034