2016 Leeu Passant Western Cape Dry Red

“The 2016 Leeu Passant Dry Red is Chris and Andrea Mullineaux’s take on 1950s and 1960s Cape red wine and utilizes fruit from vines planted as far back as 1900, with 25% whole clusters including around one-third Cabernet Franc, Cinsault and Cabernet Sauvignon. It was matured for 18 months in 225-liter French oak barrels, 30% new. This works very successfully on the nose of perfumed dark berry fruit laced with cedar and tobacco, not a million miles away from an old-school Claret. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannin, a fine bead of acidity, plenty of tar- and tobacco-infused black fruit and a slightly austere but very well balanced finish. Excellent. (NM)” (08/2018)

“A tribute to South Africa's Cape red blends of yesteryear, this wine is a blend of 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 37% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cinsault. Medium-intense notes of chocolate-covered cherry, red plum and mulberry are married to some earthy cedar, herbal root and tea notes atop, like earl grey. The medium-weight palate is firm and austere, with a pronounced tannic structure that remains quite gripping through the close. Tight flavors of plum skin, cassis and cherry pit are young and reserved. This wine is just waiting to shine and show its full potential. *Cellar Selection* (LB)” (03/2019)

“With dark red fruit and a bright, expressive core, the 2016 Leeu Passant Dry Red Wine has an energetic center that is dominated by Cabernet tones along with succulent, soft red spices and hints of herbal essence. Focused on the palate and with sturdy tannins, it ends with an elegant finish. Well-balanced and food-friendly, this wine is utterly delicious. It's a throwback to South African Cabernet made in the 1970s with the inclusion of Cinsault—the blend is about equal parts Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Cinsault. (AM)” (10/2019)

“Juicy wild berry and black currant flavors are allied to firm tannins and fresh orange peel acidity. Features a pleasant entry, but becomes dry and earthy midpalate, while remaining balanced and complex. A bit understated on the finish, but this has appeal and shows potential. Better to wait a little for the tannins to mellow. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Cinsault. (JM, Web-2019)” (11/2024)