The 2004 Manso de Velasco Cabernet Sauvignon “Old Vines” was aged in 100% French oak, 50% new, and was bottled unfiltered. Purple-colored, it offers an attractive spice box, tobacco, and black currant nose. On the palate, this excellent Cabernet is supple and forward with very good flavors in an elegant style. It should evolve for 1-2 years and drink well through 2020. Importer: Dreyfus Ashby & Co., Santa Cruz, CA; tel. (831) 440-9900

Manso ranks among the biggest, most historic and most consistent Chilean Cabernets going. The 2004 isn’t perfect but it exhibits classic old-vines blueberry and cassis aromas and flavors. There’s not too much obvious oak and the tannins seem a little soft. Which means it’s more or less ready to drink now (ahead of the ’03).——M.S.(9/1/2007)—— 90