Alabaster 2008

Provenance

The late David Brice was a respected wine connoisseur, collector and co-founder of Brice and Burnett – The Fine Wine Specialists (formerly Wine Cellar). His lifelong passion for wine from all corners of the world wine, and generosity, helped develop a culture of fine wine in South Africa and beyond. Always with value and authenticity in mind, the collection spans a wide range of styles from leading producers and diverse regions. The wines were professionally imported under refrigeration and carefully stored at Brice and Burnett (formerly Wine Cellar) thereafter. Many of the producers are not available in South Africa and provide an excellent buying opportunity.

For more detailed information on the lots, please feel free to contact Roland Peens (roland@briceandburnett.co.za). Roland spent many years sharing and enjoying these wines with David Brice and is happy to provide further insight into the collection.

Critics Ratings

“Toast, cocoa and espresso flavors frame a lively core of blackberry and licorice in this modern red, which is ripe yet bright, supported by firm tannins. Remains graceful through the clean finish.” - Thomas Matthews, Wine Spectator, 92/100 (Sep 2011)

“The 2008 Alabaster went through malolactic in new French oak followed by racking to another set of 100% new barrels (the so-called 200% new oak treatment) where it remained for 18 months. Purple/black in color, it offers up a brooding bouquet of espresso, tar, licorice, minerals, lavender, and brooding black fruits. On the palate the oak is integrated but this massive effort will require a minimum of 8-10 years to become civilized. Exceptionally dense and rich but with all the right stuff present......” - Jay S. Miller, Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, 95/100 (May 2011)

“(200% new oak): Inky purple. Sexy, highly perfumed aromas of dark berry liqueur, cherry compote, potpourri, vanilla and Asian spices, along with a smoky quality and a touch of anise. Coats the palate with deep raspberry, blackberry and cracked pepper flavors enlivened by juicy acidity. Seamless, sweet and very persistent on the finish, with the vanilla and spice notes repeating.” - Josh Raynolds, Vinous, 93/100 (Nov 2011)