d'Arenberg The Cadenzia 2006

BN#275951

d'Arenberg

Intense red cherry appearance when poured suggests a full bodied complex dry red. This really needs to be poured into a big glass as the wine is clearly suppressed. Quickly though intense red cherry, cranberry, kirsch notes to appear with a subtle background of pepper, stone fruit kernels and nutty spiced oak. As the wine opens the level of concentration evolves with ripe red fruits such as cranberry, mulberry, raspberry conserve and black tarry notes of liquorice, dried plum, baked olives and prunes with spices and touches of dried herbs. The palate is full and lush dominated with red fruits intertwined with meaty potpourri characters, savoury dry herb notes and rounded soft tannins balanced with silky acidity. The length of flavour and intensity is excellent as layers of flavours evolve with every sip. Perfectly balanced and already very stylish and juicy right to the end.

Wine Advocate

The Shiraz portion of The Cadenzia GSM comes from the Laughing Magpie selection. Purple-colored, it reveals an already complex aromatic array of cedar, mineral, underbrush, espresso, black cherry, and blueberry. Layered and succulent on the palate, it has loads of fruit, plenty of spice, and excellent length. Give it 2-3 years to round out and drink it from 2011 to 2021.

Score: 91. —Jay Miller, February 2009.

Wine Enthusiast

Full, rich and heady, this blend of 48% Grenache, 45% Syrah and only 7% Mourvèdre features lifted aromas of black cherries, then adds hints of licorice and cocoa on the palate. Extremely supple; seems to beg for early consumption.

Score: 89. —Joe Czerwinski, August 01, 2009.

Wine Spectator

Firm in texture, with green olive and tobacco flavors layered over modest blackberry fruit. A floral note adds interest to the finish. Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvèdre. Drink now through 2013.

Score: 87. —Harvey Steiman, 2008.