Black Pearl Vineyards Oro 2014
Rich ruby tones, hints of clove and spices; plum, dark berries and licorice flavours are enjoyed on the palate.
88 pts James Suckling
A spicy and juicy red with meat, berry and hints of cedar. Medium body, savory finish. Some funk. 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% shiraz. Drink now. Screw cap.
88 pts Robert Parker Jr.’s The Wine Advocate
The 2014 Oro was aged for 14 months in used oak, a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Syrah. It has a harmonious and nicely focused bouquet with perfumed mulberry and blackberry scents. The palate is ripe and sweet with candied red cherries, strawberry liqueur and white pepper towards the grainy finish. Drink this over the next 4-5 years.
4 ½ Stars 2016 Platter’s South African Wine Guide
Fortright 14 steps up on 13 with black fruit, pepper, meatiness plus attractive leafy freshness. Concentrated, full-bodied & ripe blend of cab & shiraz (80/20) skillfully managed through to satifying conclusion. Coastal WO.
87 pts Vinous-Tanzer
(15% alcohol): Bright red-ruby. Blackberry, licorice, menthol and chocolatey oak (just 10% new) on the nose At once a bit syrupy and medicinal, with dense dark fruit flavors joined by tarry and herbal nuances. Concentrated but a bit chunky, finishing with a light dusting of tannins and a repeating syrupy touch.
80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Shiraz – Black Pearl Vineyards is a single unirrigated vineyard on the slopes of Paarl Mountain. The 4.5 hectares of Shiraz (planted 1998) and 3 hectares of Cabernet Sauvignon (planted 1999) thrive on deep, well-drained Oakleaf soil. The high trellising system, severe pruning and canopy management are all managed to ensure low-yielding, stress free, phenolically ripe fruit. The adjoining land, we have made into a nature conservation area to preserve the last 4% of remaining renosterveld in the world, so being environmentally friendly is of utmost importance for us. Pest control is monitored rather than spraying chemicals, and our spray program for mildews uses chemicals with the least negative impact on the earth.
