Jardin 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch

A brick-like color leads to a nose of pure graphite and green pepper–quintessential cabernet sauvignon. That green quality follows through on the mid-palate, but it’s softened by some herbal tea and fig notes hovering around the edges. The finish, however, is the highlight of this wine: It comes on in waves: First red berry fruit, then tea, then green bell pepper again–a nicely balanced bookend, if you will. More wine reviews here.