Knappstein Lenswood 1999 Palantine (review)

85 points

This version of Tim Knappsteins Bordeaux style red is a Merlot Malbec Cabernet blend from the Adelaide Hills. Very disappointing when opened, as the nose was tight and the palate mainly tannin and a bit of that was green. After slow drinking for about 90 minutes, the wine opened as much as it could. It never developed much of a nose beyond a bit of spice and deep red fruits, the palate softened and a range of flavours emerged, but all the while blanketed in tannin. At this time it started to look like a very good Bordeaux upon opening, but never developed much finesse afterwards.