Delatite Devil’s River 2020

If memory serves, this wine used to be especially minty in character, many years ago – very much a love-it-or-hate-it style. There is still just a hint, but it is a more complete and complex wine these days. The blend is 85% Cabernet Sauvignon and 55% Merlot from vines growing biodynamically, which are between 40 and 45 years in age. 15% of the wine was fermented in older oak puncheons and given a further eight months maturation there. And opaque maroon hue, there are notes of kirsch, blackberries, smoked meats, aniseed and chocolate. This is refined, balanced and has good focus. A touch of gentle acidity sits in the background. Very enjoyable for drinking anytime over the next five to eight years.