Blood & Chocolate 2003, The Liberator

Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon

Beyond the periphery of South Africa’s conventional vineyard regions lie great vinous treasures, resigned to anonymity; forgotten, abandoned or just simply undiscovered. It is the mission of Rick The Liberator (Richard Kelley MW!), to seek out and liberate these rare parcels of wines. Whatever the wine’s provenance, it’s the mission of our Cape Crusader as to procure these precious vinous orphans and consign them to a better home.

Blood and Chocolate’ takes its inspiration from Rick’s favourite Elvis album. Elvis Costello, that is. The blood of Cabernet Sauvignon blended with the dark Bournville-like Shiraz. This mature parcel is an orphan of the Nederberg auction.

This is a truly exceptional find; where else would you find such an interesting and mature wine at this price?
17 years old and drinking beautifully. I do like a shiraz/Cab blend and with this maturity, it makes it quite special.
As you would expect, there is some sediment in the bottle, so stand upright for several hours and decant to show the wine at it’s best.
A great partner for a nice big juicy steak.