Acaibo 2017

97 POINTS

Jim Gordon - Wine Enthusiast

Very dry, very deep, very structured, this imposing wine is drenched in firm tannins that will need at least a decade to resolve for optimum drinking. Intense blackberries, blueberries and black figs have the power to outlast the tannins. Made with 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 12% Merlot. Best from 2030-2040.

95 POINTS

James Suckling

I like the fine velvety tannins and freshness to this wine. Medium to full body. The flavors of currants and pine needles are attractive. Hints of spice and red tile. A blend of 75% cabernet sauvignon, 13% cabernet franc and 12% merlot. Lovely to drink now but will improve with age. Needs time to soften but already impressive. Try after 2025.

95 POINTS

Georgina Hindle - Decanter

Smoked berries, cherries, blackcurrants, a dark fruit profile on the nose with chocolate, tobacco and clove elements. Supple and generous, controlled on the palate, almost sombre, doesn't shout out but delivers a really poised, calm energy with a full palate of blackcurrant and black cherry fruit that is cushioned by almost plush tannins but that keep a vein of minty freshness so nothing feels too much. Well worked, confident but without trying too hard. I like the blue fruit juiciness you get on the mid palate, with chalky tannins and gentle dried herbs - mint, sage and rosemary that give the grip and the frame. Nicely presented and overall really cooling in the mouth. Very complete, filling, generous but poised and finessed. Totally delicious and tastes very Bordeaux-like. Owners Claire and Gonzague Lurton, technical director Nicolas Vonderheyden.

92 POINTS

Erin Brooks - Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2017 Trinite Estate Acaibo is a blend of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc and 12% Merlot. It has a medium to deep ruby-purple color and very pretty, youthful nose of violet, warm black cherry compote, black plum, red cherry, redcurrant and aniseed with a streak of iron/graphite and an understated frame of new oak. Medium to full-bodied, it’s very lushly fruited in the mouth, giving up red fruit sparks and oodles of mineral nuance, with firm, chewy tannins and juicy acidity, finishing long. This needs more time in bottle.