Pouring deep inky, purple, with aromas of sweet blackberry, fresh leather, cooking spice and menthol. Full bodied and plush on the palate with savoury, earthy notes and firm acids balanced by big tannin and a lengthy, black tea finish.

Coarser than earlier vintages, but still has that characteristic smokiness that I love about Cathedral Cellar cabs. The nose has aromas of cassis, dark cherry and smoked herbs. The palate is warm with cherry fruit and woodsmoke but seems heavier than in the past. Full bodied, a bit sour but with great smoky length. A good value.

Not as polished as the previous vintage but still nice. Agree with smokey cassis, leathery, earthy. Good with a grilled steak or burger. 88/89