2021 Passionnement Cabernet Sauvignon
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Tasting notes
If there was any doubt that Luc Morlet can grow, make, select and blend Cabernet Sauvignon, the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement is Exhibit A refuting that argument. A terrific pure Cabernet Sauvignon mostly drawn from the Coeur de Vallée site in Oakville, supplemented by small elements from the estate vineyards in Saint Helena and Knights Valley, it screams in intensity yet somehow does so in near-perfect harmony. Blackberries, black cherries and blueberries mingle easily on the nose, while the full-bodied palate is supple and richly concentrated, plush and almost creamy in feel, then long and velvety on the never-ending finish.
Critic scores
Jeb Dunnuck
Antonio Galloni, Vinous
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The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnement is just about pure perfection. Where the Morlet Estate is more structured and backward, this is upfront and as sexy as can be, offering a saturated ruby/purple hue, notes of red and black currants, walnuts, spice box, chocolate, and smoked tobacco, as well as full body, velvety tannins, and a broad, expansive, mouth-filling texture that's to die for. Despite being a massive wine, it has perfect balance and no hard edges. It's approachable today yet will benefit from 4-5 years of bottle age and cruise for 2-3 decades in cold cellars.
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Passionnément is the most complete wine in this range, but I suppose it should be, as it is a selection of the best barrels in the cellar. Vertical and explosive, with tons of energy, the 2021 dazzles. It's a classic Morlet wine in every way.