Region: Stellenbosch
Grape: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon
10% Petit Verdot
Points & Awards:
94 points by Robert Parker
Rated 5 stars and 18.5/20 by Decanter
92 points by Wine Spectator
93 points by Stephen Tanzer’s international Wine Cellar, USA
Rated 5 stars by 2012 Platters Wine Guide
Tasting Notes:
Racy, vibrant and distinctive, with a mouthwatering core of plum, red and black currant and blackberry fruit laced with licorice snap, singed tobacco leaf and charcoal. The long, tangy finish courses along with ample drive. Drink now through 2016.
-Wine Spectator
The 2009 Lady May is due later this year. It has an introverted nose at the moment with blackberry, leather, cedar and a touch of mint, all with very fine definition and unfurling with each swirl of the glass. The palate displays very fine tannins, very well integrated oak and a beautiful, pure, caressing finish that really satisfies both in terms of the senses and intellect. This is a succinctly crafted Bordeaux blend that will age with grace. Drink 2014-2020+.
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!)
-Robert Parker