2004 Serpico Cabernet Sauvignon

Inky violet color. Superripe but focused on the nose, with potent aromas of blackberry and black cherry liqueur, cured meat, smoky herbs, lavender and sexy oak. Unbelievably lush and almost sweet, with mouthfilling, liqueur-like dark berry and ripe plum flavors tinged by intriguing notes of charred herbs and anise. Finishes with excellent persistence of dark berry fruit.

The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Serpico (aged 12 months in new American hogsheads as well as small French barrels) comes from the Willunga district in the southern sector of McLaren Vale, near the ocean. It exhibits a dense purple color in addition to an extraordinary bouquet of smoke, blueberries, black raspberries, and cassis. Superbly endowed with admirable purity, sweet tannin, a floral/fruity component, and a fabulously layered, concentrated mid-palate as well as finish, it is one of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons to ever emerge from South Australia. It should age well for 10-15 years. For a winery only established in 1999, and dedicated to hand-crafted, artisinal wines, Mitolo has consistently been a revelation in my tastings. Thanks to owner Frank Mitolo and his brilliant winemaker, Ben Glaetzer, the quality has been truly splendid. Importer: Benjamin Hammerschlag, Epicurean Wines, Seattle, WA; tel. (206) 923-1376

The 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon Serpico (aged 12 months in new American hogsheads as well as small French barrels) comes from the Willunga district in the southern sector of McLaren Vale, near the ocean. It exhibits a dense purple color in addition to an extraordinary bouquet of smoke, blueberries, black raspberries, and cassis. Superbly endowed with admirable purity, sweet tannin, a floral/fruity component, and a fabulously layered, concentrated mid-palate as well as finish, it is one of the finest Cabernet Sauvignons to ever emerge from South Australia. It should age well for 10-15 years. Oct 2005, www.robertparker.com