Bruce Jack The Epic Journey 2019

The Epic Journey is a collaboration between Napa grower Ed Schulz and Marlize Beyers, the latter a long-time associate in various winemaking ventures around the world with Bruce Jack. Grapes from Coombsville AVA, the blend consisting of 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 28% Malbec and 20% Cabernet Franc. Retail price: $82.35 a bottle (the equivalent of approximately R1 550 at the current exchange rate).

It’s archetypal of the region. Cranberry, cassis and prunes plus dried flowers, incense and milk chocolate on the nose. The palate is plush and smooth textured – lots of ripe fruit but not entirely devoid of freshness, the tannins very fine. There’s both a certain sweetness and heat to the wine but I found myself enjoying these attributes despite myself. For all it’s sumptuousness and polish, there’s still real character here. Alc: 14.5%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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