July 2015
The 2012 Lourensford SMV, a blend of predominantly Shiraz with smidgens of Mourvedre and Viognier offers up an assortment of red and dark berry fruit, ranging from blackberry, plum and cherry with a spicy top note of leather and tar flowing into a dusting of cocoa powder, combining an interesting play of fruitiness and savoriness to the wines aromatics. The palate is medium bodied with a sleek textural feel, with plum and dark cherry fruit flavors supported by finer grained tannins that give just the right amount of supporting grip. A backbone of acidity drives the cherry and plum fruit flavors, giving the wine good vibrancy and freshness with a savory twist coming up through the fruit on the dry and satisfying long finish. This is just now starting to open up and will reach its peak in another year and drink beautifully for several more years after that.