1968 Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon

A medium ruby/garnet core which faded to a dusty red brick rim with only a very slight hint of brown. The nose was unexpectedly intense and surprisingly fruit-driven; a good amount of red fruit - currants, berries and cherries - plus a little smoke, cedar and leather, with just a touch of oxidation, but nothing unpleasant at all. The palate was dominated by sour red cherries and redcurrants, with the cedar and leather coming through on the medium+ length finish. Quite light in body with a very soft texture and fully resolved tannins, it isn't a wine of huge depth or intensity, but it has impeccable balance, good complexity and lovely flavours, and for its age it has a refreshingly vibrancy. In addition, after 3 hours of being open there were no signs that it was falling over at all. It is without doubt one of the most interesting wines I have tasted recently, and is certainly holding up far better than I had anticipated.