The beauty of having a cellar (as in ‘a collection of wine’ rather than ‘underground room’) is that you end up with aged wine. Cabernet Sauvignon blends are particularly good for ageing – their tannins soften and they develop a velvety smoothness and savoury fruit character. I found this 1999 on the rack last night and decided its time had come.
Do the bottles have a sense of impending doom when I open the door? Thinking, ‘Is it my turn tonight? Will she open me and that’s the end?” Or is it joy? Wondering “Is it my turn tonight? Will I finally see the light of the dining room and my beauty to the world?”
At 25 years old, I hope this bottle was happy to be opened, because it certainly was a pleasure to drink. Aromas of black currant and plums, with the darkness of oak ageing, smooth tannins with well-balanced acidity. Quite delicious!
