Lion’s Kop – Merlot 2011 – Ricome – Stellenbosch, South Africa

The nose is aromatic and offers power as well as a small freshness. It reveals notes of blackberry, crushed cassis, sour cherry and hints of liquorice associated with slight touches of spices, cardamom, touches of oak / caramelization as well as a very discreet hint of pepper (in the background), salinity and boxwood (in the background). The palate is fruity, well-balanced and offers a fine juiciness, a small richness, a fine acid frame, minerality, a small straightness, a small fat / roundness, a good structure, power (well-controlled) as well as a small tension. On the palate this wine expresses notes of crushed cassis and crushed cassis combined with small notes of red fruits, ripe wild strawberries as well as touches of liquorice, toasted oak, vanilla and a hint of tonka bean. Good persistence. There is a subtle hint og cigar on the finish.