2008 Sanctus

One of the sleepers of the vintage, the 2008 Sanctus is composed of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet Franc that achieved 14.3% natural alcohol, which is surprisingly high for this vintage. Yields were a low 30 hectoliters per hectare. Evolved and forward with notes of sweet black currants, cassis, cherries, fruitcake, cedarwood and spice box as well as Rhone-like notes of kirsch and lavender, a medium to full-bodied mouthfeel and a lusty finish, it should be enjoyed over the next decade, although I suspect it may last even longer.