SERVE | Cuvée Alexandru | 2017
cabernet sauvignon

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Today we are going to perform another trip into the past and re-evaluate a wine that is rightly considered among the best single varietal cabernet sauvignon wines from Romania’s famous Dealu Mare region – Cuvée Alexandru 2017 by SERVE. Cabernet Sauvignon is grown all over the world in a wide range of climates and regions and it can produce wines that are very high in tannins and acidity, wines that can mature and develop for many years in the bottle. Because cabernet sauvignon is a late ripening grape variety, it is best suited for warmer climates, where it is capable to produce wines that can reach into realms of perfection. In Romania, the cabernet sauvignon variety was introduced at the start of 20th century, after the phylloxera disaster and since then, it has excelled as a variety that suits amazingly well the southern terroirs. This particular wine is the 10th anniversary edition of the already legendary Cuvée Alexandru 2010 vintage and is vinified in a classic old-world style, with moderate use of french oak, where the emphasis is on varietal characteristics of the cabernet sauvignon grapes and the delicacy of the Dealu Mare terroir. In order to soften the tannins and add gain complexity, the final blend has been aged for several months in french oak barriques. The 2017 vintage has been produced in a limited edition of only 5898 bottles. That said and without further ado, let’s take a look at the wine tasting results.
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Take a look at the tasting notes below and our detailed assessment of the wine:

(rev.2021)

(rev.2023)

//Visual
colour: deep garnet color
clarity: hazy copper shades

//Olfactory
intensity: pronounced & savory
fruit character: ripe & dehydrated

In its captivating aromatic profile, this wine leads you to a sun-drenched orchard, where ripe and dehydrated fruits reign supreme. The black fruits take center stage, exuding an alluring essence of black cherry, casis, black plum, dried black cherry and dehydrated black plum. As the wine unfolds, notes of old leather, dried olive and cured meat emerge, intermingled with delicate hints of forest floor and barnyard. The background unveils an earthy allure, subtly spiced with toasted oak, tobacco, cloves and a touch of pencil lead. These elements converge harmoniously with the black soil dust and peppercorn notes, thus creating a sensory journey that is both rustic and elegant at the same time.

//Palate
sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: high | balance: good
finish: medium+ | aftertaste: seedy

On the palate, this wine unveils a delightful interplay of dehydrated black fruits flavours and savory-earthy notes. The crisp acidity enlivens the senses, while the seedy tannins lend a textured embrace. A noticeable touch of alcoholic warmth graces the palate, leaving behind a seedy aftertaste that lingers pleasantly. The wine’s body feels firm and grippy, showcasing its well-structured nature. This is a complex wine that offers a captivating journey through its rustic and delicate layers. This is a true hedonistic wine that delivers a harmonious balance of flavors and textures, making it a true delight for the experienced connoisseur.

//Verdict
maturity: in its prime | drink now or within 1-2 years
verdict: great | a must try wine | a wine that has all the traits to become legendary

In conclusion, this red wine presents a truly captivating experience from start to finish. On the palate, the interplay of dehydrated black fruits and savory-earthy undertones creates a voluptuous and ample mouthfeel. This wine’s firm and grippy body showcases its well-structured nature, as it is a wine that combines the power of cabernet sauvignon with the terroir-driven rustic delicacy, that only an old-world-styled wine can deliver. With its nuanced savory-earthy accent and harmonious blend of flavors, this wine truly leaves a lasting impression and is sure to satisfy even the most discerning wine enthusiasts.

//Scoring
SERVE | Cuvée Alexandru | 2017
variety: cabernet sauvignon
country: Romania | Muntenia
region: Dealu Mare
rating: 94.1
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This is definitely a great wine of Romania and, with a total of 94.1 points scored, this wine is right there, among the best wines we’ve rated so far. Check our complete database on the wine rating page, where you can find all the wines that we have tasted and reviewed or go to the about us page and find out more about our exquisite rating system.

Pairing: Based on the wine’s savory-rustic profile and its rich flavor palette, we would recommend to pair it with a succulent roasted wild boar dish. Imagine a tender and juicy wild boar roast, marinated with earthy herbs and spices, slow-cooked to perfection. The wine’s savory-earthy character will harmonize beautifully with the bold flavors of the wild boar, enhancing its natural richness, while the wine’s seedy aftertaste will complement the meat’s flavour intensity, providing a satisfying contrast. This pairing offers a delightful interplay of flavors, where the power of the wine merges with the untamed elegance of wild boar, resulting in a truly unforgettable gastronomic adventure. Enjoy!

(rev.2021)

(rev.2023)

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© The WineStatistics ratings are based solely on our own knowledge of the world of wine and on our personal wine tastes, which may, or may not, differ from yours – the reader. Just remember that there are no absolutes of right and wrong in wine appreciation.