MINIS TERRIOS | Cabernet Sauvignon | 2021
cabernet sauvignon
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Minis Terrios is a relatively young, family-owned winery that draws inspiration from specialized wine education in France. Established with a focus on high-quality wine production, the winery aims to reflect Moldova’s unique terroir through their microvinification, by blending modern techniques with traditional winemaking.
Today we are going to review a single-varietal cabernet sauvignon wine that comes from the Valul lui Traian region, situated in the south of Moldova – Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 by Minis Terrios. Made of grapes that were sourced from the relatively warm Valul lui Traian IGP, the wine has been aged for 16 months in French oak barriques (from which 30% new oak and 70% oak barrels at second use), with additional bottle ageing before it is deemed ready for the market release.
Valul lui Traian is renowned for its favorable to viticulture climate, characterized by long sunny days that creates a long growing season, therefore this region is adept at producing rich and intense red wines, making it an ideal place for thick-skinned grape varieties like cabernet sauvignon.
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, that can mature and develop for many years in the bottle. Cabernet Sauvignon is also a late ripening grape variety, which means that it is best suited for warm climates, where it is capable to produce wines that can reach into realms of perfection, where they are rarely followed.
Valul lui Traian IGP boasts a warm continental climate that is ideal for viticulture, especially suited for red grape varieties. The region’s geography forms a harmonious balance between warm summer days and cool nights, which is essential for achieving optimal ripeness and for the development of rich flavors in the grapes. The soil here is predominantly clay, limestone, and a bit of sandy loam, ensuring excellent drainage and providing the necessary nutrients to the vines, ideal for cultivating high-quality grapes. Compared to similar wines from other regions, those from Valul lui Traian region are capable to showcase a robust aromatic intensity brought by the unique climatic and soil characteristics of the region.
color: deep & opaque ruby color
clarity: hazy ruby shades at the rim
In the glass, the wine presents a deep ruby color, with hazy ruby shades at the rim, indicative of its youth and vibrancy.
intensity: pronounced & expressive
fruit character: ripe
On the nose, this wine is pronounced and expressive, showcasing ripe black fruits such as dark cherry, black plum, and blackcurrant. Subtle hints of dust and ink add intrigue, while in the background, the oak-infused notes of cloves and tobacco, alongside notes of baking spices like peppercorn, nutmeg, and anise, create a complex aromatic profile.
sweetness: dry | acidity: high | alcohol: high | tannin: high | balance: good
finish: medium+ | aftertaste: crisp & seedy
On the palate, the wine feels firm and bold, with a ripe fruit character that is typical of the cabernet sauvignon gape variety. Its dry profile is complemented by crisp acidity and a touch of alcoholic warmth. The tannins are grippy and astringent, leading to a pleasantly-seedy aftertaste that lingers nicely.
maturity: developing | drink now or age for at least 2 or 3 years
verdict: fine | highly recommended | a wine of premium quality with good potential
Overall, this is a full-bodied and vibrant cabernet sauvignon wine that showcases the true potential of Moldova’s cabernets. While currently approachable, the wine is still developing and can benefit from at least 2 or 3 more years of bottle aging in order to soften its sharp edges and enhance its complexity.
MINIS TERRIOS | Cabernet Sauvignon | 2021
variety: cabernet sauvignon
country: Moldova
region: Valul lui Traian
rating: 93.3
This cabernet sauvignon wine would pair nicely with hearty dishes such as grilled meats or rich stews. The wine’s bold character and crisp acidity would cut through the fat of these dishes and complement their pronounced flavors, thus creating a delightful wine tasting experience.
© 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. Cheers!
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By training ourselves to stop, take a breath, and pay attention to the subtle elements that distinguish one wine from any other, we learn an important lesson about life – that it’s worth taking the time to slow down and appreciate things that pleases us, from a glass of wine to a great work of art. It’s a simple way to learn to appreciate the little things in life that may in some small way enhance our enjoyment of every day.
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WineStatistics is a non-profit community. We produce independent and highly detailed wine reviews.
By training ourselves to stop, take a breath, and pay attention to the subtle elements that distinguish one wine from any other, we learn an important lesson about life – that it’s worth taking the time to slow down and appreciate things that pleases us, from a glass of wine to a great work of art. It’s a simple way to learn to appreciate the little things in life that may in some small way enhance our enjoyment of every day.
In order to continue our work we need support from people like you. People who appreciate our contribution in spreading wine knowledge and raising wine awareness across the borders.
You may now support us by contributing with a monthly donation so that we can review even more wines.
WineStatistics is a non-profit community. We produce independent and highly detailed wine reviews.
By training ourselves to stop, take a breath, and pay attention to the subtle elements that distinguish one wine from any other, we learn an important lesson about life – that it’s worth taking the time to slow down and appreciate things that pleases us, from a glass of wine to a great work of art. It’s a simple way to learn to appreciate the little things in life that may in some small way enhance our enjoyment of every day.
In order to continue our work we need support from people like you. People who appreciate our contribution in spreading wine knowledge and raising wine awareness across the borders.
You may now support us by contributing with a yearly donation so that we can review even more wines.
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