After an exhausting week, it is time to unwind - and what better way to do so, than with a beautifully balanced Bordeaux style blend? Raka's 2012 Quinary is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec; Cab Sauv taking the leading role with 50%.
The wine has a lovely clear and bright, ruby to garnet colour, of medium depth and slight gradation, showing the slight maturation.
On the nose the wine presents a rather forthcoming and complex character. Initially the wine had an extremely smokey aroma, but when returning to the glass aromas of buchu and savory herbs meets the nose. Slight aromas of fruit such as gooseberries can be detected on further observations.
When sampled Quinary has a tannic, dry entry. The smokiness and slight herbaceousness detected on the nose follows through onto the palate. Other flavours present include savory olives and a slight pepperiness with a mineral undertone. Fruity flavours take a backseat in this interesting blend. While the tannin structure is firm, it is not abrasive. The acidity of the wine is well balanced with the tannins and flavour. Quinary is a full-bodied wine with a lingering smokey aftertaste.
This wine is an excellent standalone wine, when you are planning to drink quality rather than quantity.
Foods I would suggest pairing this wine would include a Madagascan pepper fillet, Kudu loin steak or a rich and hearty game pie or stew.
I would rate this wine an excellent 17.5 to 18 out of 20.
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