SIMONSIG TIARA STELLENBOSCH - 2000

The first Tiara from Stellenbosch, South Africa was made in 1990 and released in 1992. This Bordeaux-style red is matured 18 months in French Oak and American White Oak and is composed of 62% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Merlot, 6% Petite Verdot and 4% Cabernet Franc.

TASTING NOTES:

Dark ruby color with Bordeaux-like pencil and smoke aromas. Elegant herbs, medicinal cherry and dark fruits emerge on the powerful midpalate. The finish delivers tremendous grilled meat and toasted oak flavors that can only be described as drinking a bonfire. 14.1% alcohol with a big tannin structure. This wine will age very well.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

89 PTS
Another wonderful South African red. I have been more than pleased with most of the reds I've recently tasted from Stellenbosch. This is a highly underappreciated part of the world making richly crafted red wine with lots of complexity. Retails for around $20.