Sena 1996

“Seña 1996 has a violet-red colour with a very expressive nose featuring cedar, graphite, loam, coffee, and liquorice over a base of black fruit and strawberry compote. Although still young, this is a wine with firm but ripe tannins and displays various layers of sweet spice, such as cloves, and light balsamic notes. An elegant touch of tobacco and ginger lend complexity on its long, fresh finish. This wine will continue to develop its full potential over the next 6 to 9 years.”

A cooler-than-normal season allowed the fruit to reach optimum ripeness while retaining good acidity, resulting in elegant wines with great depth. In early summer, warm weather ensured good fruit set, and meticulous work in the vineyard and adjusting crop loads during veraison resulted in exceptional uniformity in ripening. The season’s cooler temperatures extended the ripening period and encouraged excellent aroma and flavour development in both grapes, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere.

Dark ruby with rust-coloured rim. Dusty cocoa-powder nose and a hint of mint. Losing fruit and guts but well mannered. Now this is a bit simple and veering towards gaminess. Tim Mondavi was involved, keen to make elegant style.