VIILE METAMORFOSIS | Cantvs Primvs | Cabernet Sauvignon | 2017
cabernet sauvignon

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Today we are going to review a single-varietal cabernet sauvignon wine from the famous Dealu Mare appellation of the Muntenia region in Romania – Cantvs Primvs Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 by Vitis Metamorfosis. 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, this grape 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. The wine we are reviewing today is part of the Cantvs Primvs project, that has been launched in 2009 (which has been inscribed on the label ever since: MMIX) by Giancorrado Ulrich, Fiorenzo Rista and Marquis Piero Antinori, hence its name that translated from latin means ‘the first song‘. After consulting with Renzo Cotarella, the Managing Director of Antinori S.P.A., the Dealu Mare area was identified as the region with the most potential in terms of climate and terroir, which was in line with the philosophy of the Antinori family to produce high quality wines in the premium and super-premium segments, similar to the Super Tuscan wines produced by the Antinori in Italy. But let’s get back to our wine, in order to soften the tannins and add a layer of extra complexity, this wine has been aged for 18 months in oak barrels (225L) and buds (5000L), so that the final wine would also preserve as much as possible the varietal characteristics of the cabernet sauvignon grapes. 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:

//Visual
color: medium-deep | garnet color
clarity: hazy | garnet shades

//Olfactory
intensity: pronounced & expressive
fruit character: ripe & overripe

On the first nose, this wine reveals a captivating interplay of ripe and overripe black fruits in the foreground. The aroma unfolds with notes of black cherries, dark plums and blackberries. These notes are complemented by spicy undertones that add complexity to the bouquet, evoking hints of peppercorn, nutmeg and cloves. The background introduces subtle earthy elements, with hints of pencil lead and soil dust, creating a sense of connection to the vineyard’s terroir, complemented by well integrated oaky undertones, with notes of tobacco, cigar box and toasted oakwood. This wine presents a harmonious marriage between its vibrant fruit character, subtle earthiness and well integrated oak-derived aromas, resulting in a wine that offers both vibrancy and sophistication in its olfactory profile.

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

On the palate, this wine delivers a captivating tasting experience, by displaying an expressive fruit character, highlighted by enchanting notes of black fruits, oak and sweet spice. The mouthfeel is defined by crisp acidity that adds liveliness on the mouthfeel, ripe tannins that forms a firm and bold structure, and an overwhelming touch of alcoholic warmth, that contributes to the wine’s robust palate, adding a layer of complexity to the overall profile. The aftertaste is both crisp and heady, leaving a lasting and satisfying sensation that linger for quite a while. This wine is an excellent choice for those seeking a firm, bold and expressive wine tasting experience.

//Verdict
maturity: developing | drink now or in the next 4 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential

All in all, this is a rich and well-structured cabernet sauvignon wine, with some subtle hints of terroir-driven delicacy. On the palate it feels firm and nuanced, mixing ripe black fruits with subtle earthy undertones, that are complemented by oak-derived flavours that add depth and sophistication. The wine’s crisp and firm mouthfeel contributes to its robustness, while the slightly heady nature of the wine might overpower the over elements. This is a fine cabernet sauvignon wine that manages to reflect some of the varietal characteristics of this grape variety, yet, in its current state, the wine lacks the desired harmony and finesse on the palate. Despite this, the wine holds promise for further improvement with additional bottle aging, making it a noteworthy choice for those seeking a top-quality cabernet sauvignon wine that embodies the essence of its origin and is capable to deliver both, power and vibrancy on the palate.

//Scoring
VIILE METAMORFOSIS | Cantvs Primvs | Cabernet Sauvignon | 2017
variety: cabernet sauvignon
country: Romania | Muntenia
region: Dealu Mare
rating: 93.5

//Prediction
predicted RP rating: 90+
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This is definitely a fine wine of Romania and, with a total of 93.5 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: Judging by the wine’s expressive and rich character, we would recommend to pair it with a grilled ribeye steak, seasoned with a touch of rosemary and garlic. The wine’s nuanced, fruit-forward profile, with its ripe black fruits and well integrated oak notes, will beautifully complement the charred flavors of the steak, while the wine’s firm and slightly heady palate will complement the hearty nature of the beef, creating a harmonious balance. In the same key, the wine’s crisp and slightly angular mouthfeel, will cut through the richness of the meat, offering a delightful contrast of flavours and textures. This pairing will provide a culinary experience that is capable to elevate both, the wine’s complexity and the steak’s smoky character. Cheers!

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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.