Cardinale – Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 – Napa Valley

The nose is aromatic, fine, racy, quite elegant and intense. It reveals notes of blackberry, cassis and fine notes of spices, Sichuan pepper combined with discreet hint of bell pepper, (very) slight hints of violet and a discreet toasted hint. The palate is fruity, well-balanced, beautifully elegant, aerial, suave and offers minerality, a beautiful structure, juiciness, finesse, a good volume as well as an unctuous and velvety matter. On the palate this wine expresses notes of blackberry, cassis, strawberry and a hint of cherry associated with a (very) discreet hint of crunchy bell pepper, sweet spices as well as a discreet touch of cardamom, Bourbon vanilla and a discreet touch of wood. Tannins are fine, elegant, straight and slightly firm. Good length and nice persistence with a discreet hint of cocoa / dark chocolate, licorice and blackberry cream.