2018 L'Aventure, Estate Cuvée, Paso Robles, California, USA
Critics reviews
Drink 2023 to 2040
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux (September 2022)
About this WINE
L'Aventure
Cabernet Sauvignon blend
Cabernet Sauvignon lends itself particularly well in blends with Merlot. This is actually the archetypal Bordeaux blend, though in different proportions in the sub-regions and sometimes topped up with Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petit Verdot.
In the Médoc and Graves the percentage of Cabernet Sauvignon in the blend can range from 95% (Mouton-Rothschild) to as low as 40%. It is particularly suited to the dry, warm, free- draining, gravel-rich soils and is responsible for the redolent cassis characteristics as well as the depth of colour, tannic structure and pronounced acidity of Médoc wines. However 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wines can be slightly hollow-tasting in the middle palate and Merlot with its generous, fleshy fruit flavours acts as a perfect foil by filling in this cavity.
In St-Emilion and Pomerol, the blends are Merlot dominated as Cabernet Sauvignon can struggle to ripen there - when it is included, it adds structure and body to the wine. Sassicaia is the most famous Bordeaux blend in Italy and has spawned many imitations, whereby the blend is now firmly established in the New World and particularly in California and Australia.
Buying options
Add to wishlist
Description
A classic feel to this 2018, less exuberant than the 2016, more refined in fruit character, with bilberry, cassis and raspberry leaf, with clear spice, dried herbs and concentrated liqourice. The tannic grip closes in fairly early, and you feel the linearity of the wine stretching out in the palate. It will benefit from another few years in bottle. The high alcohol is well handled, but I suggest erring on the side of cool temperature for serving. 100% new oak. First vintage with a shade cloth during the growing season to protect the grapes.
Drink 2023 to 2040
Jane Anson, Inside Bordeaux (September 2022)
wine at a glance
Delivery and quality guarantee