2016 Pangaea World Red Blend

The 2016 Pangaea is a blend of 39% Merlot (Right Bank Bordeaux), 33% Cabernet Sauvignon (Napa Valley) , 19% Malbec (Valle de Uco, Argentina), 6% Cabernet Franc (Helderberg, South Africa), and 2% Petit Verdot (Dehesa del Carrizal Vino de Pago, Spain). It is deep garnet in color with a touch of purple. After a swirl or two, notes of blueberry pie, redcurrant jelly, and warm cassis erupt from the glass, followed by suggestions of licorice, menthol, tapenade, and Indian spice plus a waft of cigar box.

The full-bodied palate delivers beautiful tension, with a firm line of ripe, grainy tannins to support the taut, muscular black fruits, finishing very straight-laced and classic.

96 Points The Wine Independent