Decided to do a little side to side comparison of young 2014 vintage. Big Bro and Little Bro–Those who Know-Know!
Sociando Mallet 2014
Glasvin stemware, 1hr decant drank over 3hrs, Dense ruby with dark core—clean and youthful appearance. On the nose bright red fruits and beautiful cassis cascading over leather, robbed by blackberries and black current, coffee is pronounced, long clean, fresh, lifting notes of green pepper and herbs. On the palate, the attack is aggressive but balanced, tannic (surprised the tannins are not big and rustic --but finer in nature), green streak lifted and fresh, a touch bitter, the cabernet red fruit is a bit dominated by the merlot at the moment. A good length and definition of fruit. Acid is outstanding, mouthwatering, and clean. Body is med+ filling out over the next couple of hours. This wine is balanced, and finish is long.
Other observations—I bought 24btls on release and this is the first bottle I have tried. It reminds me of the 2001 vintage (one of my favorites alongside 89, 95, 2003). I think it is that bright “cassis over leather” that upon first whiff made me think 2001. If I had one slight surprise it was the Merlot was much more dominate both on nose and palate (not in a scarry way…more in a “that’s interesting lets see where that goes”—kind of way. Yes, it has its traditional green streak but in a cleansing refreshing sort of way. The acid was so darn clean and balancing. Finally, I can’t tell you when I have had a young SM last (I am currently diminishing my 2003’s)----but I really did enjoy this and maybe I should rethink not touching these young every now and then.
Lanessan 2014
Glasvin stemware, 1hr decant drank over 3hrs, Dense ruby dark core (visually not distinguishable at this stage from the SM). On the nose the seems slightly shut down. Red fruits, black currant, some graphite/pencil shavings, blueberry, flowery with slightly unripe stemminess going on. Palate is slightly muted on initial taste, Med+ tannins a bit more rustic than the SM, muted but clean… more red than dark fruits, more green oregano”ish” flavors. Med+ Acid mouthwatering. Wine is balanced, Finish is Med.
Other observations. I bought a 12 pk on release and this is the first bottle I have tried. The wine opened slightly more over the 3 hrs. I think everything is there-- but not really popping. I normally drink my Lanessan at 10-15 but have had many enjoyable older vintages. I tried the 2019 recently and was very impressed. Conclusion there was a lack of “brightness” at this point showing in the Lanessan. Still youthful and I think overshadowed by the SM. I believe this will work its way out in 2-3 years. Still a great wine and a beloved wine.
