Provenance

Private Client

Critics Ratings

2005 - ‘Merlot-headlined blend - hence name - with Cabernet and Malbec (31/15). 05, from concentrated year, appropriately deeply perfumed, opulent and sweet-fruited; accessible but well-structured for longer term cellaring. Fr oak, 34% new.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2008, 4.5*

'The 2005 Series M has a perfumed, floral bouquet of dark cherries, pressed iris, a touch of cigar box and light minty scents. The fresh, vibrant palate is medium-bodied with supple tannin, mint-infused black cherry and boysenberry fruit and a potent, spicy, white pepper finish that lingers in the mouth. Excellent.’ - Neal Martin, Vinous.com, 92/100

2014 - ‘There’s less new oak on the 2014 M than usual because of the cooler vintage, and the wine benefits from it in my view. Combining almost equal parts of Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, it’s smooth and silky with notes of black fig and bramble and ripe, textured tannins. 2018-23’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2017, 93/100

2015 - 'More succulent, velvety blend of 40% Merlot, near-equal Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec, 2015’s deep-piled black and blue fruit is fine textured and already accessible, seamed with delicious subtle earthiness. Cocoa powder and vanilla spicing after 22 months in oak, 18% new.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2019, 4.5* (93/100)

‘Rich, thick palate with indulgent black fruit yet soft, pampered tannins. Long, fragrant palate with a lot of potential for age. Gets the balance of New World ripeness and classic savoury structure just right.’ - Richard Hemming MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17/20 (Sept 2018)

‘There’s more Cabernet Sauvignon (31%) in this 2015 M release than usual, although Merlot retains its dominant slot. M is sometimes seen as a supporting act to C, but this year it (almost) deserves equal billing. Intense and concentrated with notes of kirsch, dark chocolate and cassis, it has very fine tannins indeed. 2021-28.’ - Tim Atkin SA Special Report 2018, 95/100