Robert Parker: 90pts
Wine Spectator: 88pts
Grape
100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting Notes
The 2009 The Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon is matured for 12 months in oak with racking every four. It has a lifted, slightly “briny” bouquet with good definition. The palate is full-bodied with firm tannins, a grainy texture with a dry, quite austere tobacco-laced finish. Showing impressive grip and persistence, I suggest leaving this for another 12 months in bottle. Drink 2013-2020.
When the indefatigable May-Elaine de Lencquesaing purchased the 128-hectare Glenelly Estate in 2003, a new chapter opened up for her upon the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain. The following year, 60-hectares or red and 5-hectares of white grape varieties were planted, although it was not until 2009 that the state-of-the-art winery became operational. The first release was a Cape Blend from imported grapes and, to be honest, I remember the quality not being up to standard. However, the appointment of Luke O’Cuinneagain, who had worked at Chateau Angelus, Screaming Eagle and Rustenberg, plus the consultancy of Adi Badenhorst has had an immediate impact, and I was very impressed by these wines. She will be giving her old Deuxieme Cru a run for its money soon (and let’s not even think about comparing prices!)
-by Robert Parker
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A gutsy, briary style, with coffee, fig and currant flavors liberally laced with notes of roasted tobacco leaf. There’s a grippy edge on the finish. Drink now through 2013.
-by Wine Spectator
*15000 bottles produced