2018 Prince of Hearts Red

Checking in as close to an even split of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with around 1% each of Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, the 2018 Prince Of Hearts Red offers a stunning, Bordeaux-like nose of red and black currants, new leather, lead pencil, graphite, and bouquet garni. With medium to full-bodied richness, a seamless, elegant texture, classy background oak, and a great finish, this head turner has plenty of richness, yet it's the balance, purity, and texture that keep you coming back to the glass. Bravo!

The 2018 Prince of Hearts is dark, sensual and inviting. Merlot plays the leading role in the 2018, giving the wine striking depth, texture and resonance. Dark cherry, mocha, spice and new leather all flesh out in this pliant, super-expressive wine. All the elements are so impeccably balanced. The vintage was generous and there was too much Merlot for the flagship wines, so most of it went into the Prince of Hearts. The 2018 is a fabulous edition.

The 2018 Prince of Hearts Paradise Hills Vineyard is composed of 48.8% Merlot, 48.3% Cabernet Sauvignon, 1.7% Cabernet Franc and 1.2% Petit Verdot. Deep garnet-purple colored, it comes bounding out of the glass with notes of black plum preserves, Morello cherries, black raspberries and redcurrant jelly with suggestions of cedar chest, menthol, pencil lead and cardamom. Medium to full-bodied, the palate has great intensity with a real skip in its step, featuring bold, crunchy fruit and rounded tannins with seamless freshness and a fragrant finish.