Ataraxia Serenity, Hemel-En-Aarde

The 2014 Ataraxia Mountain Vineyard Serenity, Western Cape is a Shiraz blend of six Mediterranean varieties raised in 36% new French oak for 18 months followed by 35 months in bottle. The nose is attractive: well-defined and yes, evoking distant scents of the Mediterranean sea, red plum, marmalade, Cyprus trees and wild heather. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and fine acidity. Salted licorice, star anise, dark plum and fig jam form the core of fruit with a linear finish that will surely mellow with a couple more years in bottle. Excellent. Drink now-2021