The Miles Mossop Sam 2021 is a ‘seamless, refined cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon’, notes Tim Atkin MW. This remarkable release possesses that rare ethereal quality, offering balance, finesse and an understated structure. Simply put, this is a stunning wine.
The Polkadraai forms the core source of this Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, and the vineyard lends an effortless power to the wine. It shows red to dark cherry fruit, beguiling ripe tobacco and an intricate palate with ‘stylish tannins’ (Tim Atkin).
Miles Mossop Wines was launched in 2004. After producing top quality Stellenbosch Cabernet for nearly two decades, Miles was finally ready to make a wine that’s the ultimate expression of his love for the variety. This is that wine. Produced in minute quantities, we have a small allocation of this 97-pointer. The 2021 is a blend of 93% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot and 4% Merlot, with 40% new oak – wonderfully integrated. It’s a worthy dedication to his wife, Sam.
Tasting Notes:
‘The latest in a run of very smart releases of Miles Mossop’s top red, this is a seamless, refined cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot and 2% Petit Verdot, marrying components from Bottelary, Helderberg and the Polkadraai Hills. Scented, granitic and polished, with perfumed 40% new wood and layers of cassis, fennel and bramble framed by stylish tannins.’ – Tim Atkin, MW, South African Special Report 2024, 97/100
‘The nose shows cassis and perhaps some cranberry, floral perfume, the merest hint of leafiness, pencil shavings, vanilla and oak spice. Great fruit definition, bright acidity and powdery, tightly knit tannins. It’s perhaps not the most splendid or imposing of wines of what is generally considered an excellent vintage for the Bordeaux varieties as grown in Stellenbosch, but it is very skilfully assembled. Alc: 14%.’ – Christian Eedes, winemag.co.za, 95/100
