Ironworker extraordinaire

Master Ironworker Robert Bentley has been working for Sculpterra since 1998, building the incredible entry gates and other works around the property, plus helping to install all of the other sculptures. His workshop sits in the centre of the Sculpterra estate, right in front of the oldest vines planted there. That 3.5-acre block of vines is known as the “Bentley Ironworks”, and provides some of the best fruit on the property. Bob’s too nice to admit to it, but he’s somewhat of a legend…

Top of the line

The amount of fruit obtained from the “Bentley” block is considerably less than some other vines on the estate, averaging only 2 tons per acre. Combine that intense fruit with long-term ageing in French and top-end American barrels, and what results is a wine of such complexity and structure, it’s assured a place at the head of Sculpterra’s Cabernet Sauvignon lineup. Usually, no more than 200 cases of this wine are made each year, and it retails for $60.

Tasting notes

Medium-deep vibrant garnet, with a little purple

Medium+ intense aroma. Complex. Ripe, smoky cherry, suede leather, allspice, coffee, blackberry, a little mint leaf

Dry, medium+ body. Rich and refined.

Medium+ acidity, lasting medium+ pleasant tannin

Intense cherry, spice and some smoke

Long, complex finish

Conclusion

It’s fair to say that this is one of my favourite wines from Sculpterra (or anywhere). I only wish I could afford to drink it more often.

There’s something about the balance, mouthfeel, and finish that really stands out with this one. That said, it’s still young, and will definitely get even better with time.

Do yourself a favour, and seek this wine out. It’s available in the tasting room, or online at Sculpterra.com

If you want to see the harvest crew machine picking the Bentley block, click here for photos.

For more wine reviews, go to my blog home page, and peruse to your heart’s content.

Darren

Bentley Cab’ fruit, ready for picking