Another "Over the Top" Cabernet from Marquis Philips!

Marquis Philips S2 Cabernet Blend 2005
McLaren Vale, Australia $34
We Bought A Bunch: $29.99
What The Wine Critics Thought: Wine Advocate 94 Points
Marquis Philips’ luxury cuvées include the 2005 Cabernet S2, an inky/blue/purple color in addition to a sumptuous, toasty bouquet of grilled meats, blackberries, crème de cassis, licorice, and subtle herbs. With superb purity, richness, body, intensity, and length, it should drink well through 2016.

What We Thought: Wow...this one's a big boy! Spicy cedar and cassis aromas mark the nose and lead to a huge, viscous, very full-bodied palate of ultra-ripe blackberry and plum with hints of dark chocolate and allspice. The supple tannins lead to a lingering, almost plummy finish. Surprisingly, it doesn't display the heat I would expect from its over-16-percent alcohol level. This could be the poster child for Aussie Cabernet!

January 24, 2007