2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block
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Tasting notes
Deep garnet in color, the nose of the 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a little mute to begin, slowly unfurling to give glimpses at crème de cassis, mocha, new leather and unsmoked cigar scents followed by seductive wafts of sandalwood, kirsch, aniseed and dried mulberries plus a hint of cedar. Medium to full-bodied, the palate reveals beautiful poise and sophistication, with tightly wound savory and earth layers and a fine-grained texture, finishing with fantastic freshness and with great persistence.
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Average Score
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
Stephen Tanzer, Vinous
More reviews and scores
(an 80/20 blend of cabernet sauvignon and merlot; from vines planted on a rocky, north-facing terrace): Good full ruby. Sweet aromas of cassis, licorice, minerals and bitter chocolate. Thick, sweet and rocky, with plush, highly concentrated, very primary fruit flavors. This is pliant from the start but really needs four or five years of additional bottle aging. The very long finish features suave tannins.
The 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Coliseum Block is a big wine endowed with considerable richness and structure in its dark black fruit, flowers, minerals and spices. It shows fabulous intensity and drive through to the energetic finish.
(80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% merlot): Full ruby. Slightly reduced, medicinal nose hints at primary berries, licorice and minerals. Then sweet and thick in the mouth, with flavors of blackberry, blueberry and licorice complicated by a gamey nuance. Slightly bitter on the end, but the clenched tannins arrive late. This very persistent wine needs a racking.