Mature, with coffee, prune, cigar smoke, cedar and dried currant notes that still have some life, before giving way to a slightly rustic finish. Shows concentration and depth, but should have been released a while ago. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. Past its prime. 400 cases imported.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Stellenbosch / Simonsberg-Stellenbosch Select to Add

A classic Bordeaux blend, dominated by 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, Premiere Selection is a ripe wine, layered with sweet fruit dominating firm tannins. Despite those tannins, the big fruit flavors mean the wine is ready to drink now. ——R.V.(11/1/2006)—— 91

Pronounced prune and mint aromas lead to a Port-like palate of chewy prune, plum, chocolate and coffee flavors. It's thick and dark in color, but perhaps a bit overripe in the end. Ambitious but a bit clumsy for me. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Drink now through 2005. 1,200 cases made.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Coastal Region / Stellenbosch / Simonsberg-Stellenbosch Select to Add

The dry, tart berry, earth and tobacco profile is appealingly elegant, as is the lean but solid feel and good acidity. Closes long with tobacco and spice notes, and could pass for a Bordeaux cru bourgeois, or even a lesser classified growth. It’s drinking well now, but should improve further through 2004. Editors’ Choice. —M.M.——M.M.(4/1/2002)—— 90