WTN: 2003 Neil Ellis Cabernet Sauvignon

[David M. Bueker]

I can't shake the thought that this wine bears a striking resemblance to Sociando-Mallet. It has a similar green overlay with dark fruit, though it's less structured than your typical Sociando (actually not unlike the 2003 Sociando). I like its balance and finishing cherry fruit, though I think many folks (who prefer "riper" wines) would not like the green aromatic element.

[Jenise]

I can't shake the thought that this wine bears a striking resemblance to Sociando-Mallet. It has a similar green overlay with dark fruit, though it's less structured than your typical Sociando (actually not unlike the 2003 Sociando). I like its balance and finishing cherry fruit, though I think many folks (who prefer "riper" wines) would not like the green aromatic element.

So your 03 turned out to be a lot like my 05. The 'green element' was why I nixed this one for our neighborhood tasting--I liked it, but combine the green element with the acidity and it has Last Place written all over it. (That green thing is actually pretty common in South African cabs, though.)

[David M. Bueker]

Yes it was quite similar. I liked the wine a lot more last night (24 hours of air). The green was less intrusive by a long shot & the fruit had gained depth.