2013 Iacob Red Dealu Mare – Romania
Cabernet Sauvignon / Feteascå Neagrå
Davino is the top producer in Romania and this is one of their flagship wines. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with Feteascå Neagrå, also known as `Black Maiden`, which is one of Romania`s oldest grape varieties, known for its dark colour and strong tannins. It is a made in a definite new world style and I can see why it is regarded as one of the country’s top wines.
The Region of Dealu Mare sits on the same parallel which goes through Piedmont and Bordeaux, however the climate is mote continental – Warm summers and very cold winters. All this adds up to a great place to grow grapes and with new investment and modern winemaking practices coming into the country, the sky is the limit. In fact, it is widely accepted that the two areas which will generate the most excitement over the next 10 years will be Eastern Europe and South America. For pretty much the same region. Well established vineyards with both international and indigenous grape varieties, an influx of foreign investment and modern winemaking / viticultural practices, favourable exchange rates and cheap labour costs.
The fruit was picked at quite ripe levels, with the two grape varieties vinified separately. The juice was kept on skins for different times, 15 days for the Feteascå Neagrå, 21 days for the Cabernet Sauvignon; reflecting the very dark and tannic nature of the Feteascå Neagrå. The wine was aged in Romanian oak barrels for 9 months and then was released after 12 months in the bottle.
You cannot help but think of a “New World” Bordeaux, when you drink this wine. Taking the best characteristics of each. The complexity and structure you associate with Bordeaux, with the freshness and fleshiness of the new world. A winning combination.
The nose is intense and full of blackcurrant aromas with notes of coffee and pepper. Dark cherries, plums and chocolate in the mouth with undertones of spice and vanilla from 9 months ageing in Romanian oak barrels. Supple tannins and a good structure lead to a long and persistent finish.