Despotika Winery from Vlaški Do (Šumadija) has recently organized a vertical tasting of its most popular red wine Dokaz (Cabernet Sauvignon) so we had the opportunity to check the quality and aging potential of this wine.

Dokaz 2019 - Wine that is still developing, a hint of reduction. Sample from a used oak barrel (producer Trust, medium toasting, second year). A youthful, juicy impression. On the nose, fruit-forward profile: black currant, blueberry, plum, spicy tones. In the mouth, the tannins are still running wild, more time is needed to finetune them. Fruity character on the palate, smart use of oak, without excessive vanilla flavor. Predominant flavors of black and red fruit, black currant.

Dokaz 2018 - On the nose, a calm impression dominated by a mix of red and black fruits, blueberries, black currants, raspberries, with a trace of smoke, iodine, graphite. Rounded, very pleasant on the palate. Ripe tannins give the wine robustness and firm structure, in a fine balance with juicy tones of black and red fruit, plum, forest floor, ginger. Smart oak. A wine that is yet to show all its splendor. 88/100

Dokaz 2017 - Another wine that confirms that 2017 in Serbia was exceptional for red wines. Aromatic profile and intensity follow the pathline of previous wine from the vintage 2018, but it adds more complexity and more concentration. Expressive mouthfeel, great structure. Long, lush finish. 92/100

Dokaz 2016 - It is clearly evident that Dokaz retains its distinct fruitiness over a long period. On the nose, plentiful aromas of red currant, blackberry, plum, rounded, soft fruity impression complemented by spicy tones. The acidity adds freshness and juiciness. On the palate, absence of cooked, jammy fruit flavors,  fresh blackberry, blueberry, plum, herbal trace in the finish. 89/100

Dokaz 2015 - Dokaz from the vintage 2015 is still evolving, although if we compare all the wines from this tasting, the vintage 2015 shows more dried fruit aromas. Black currant, prunes, fresh tobacco, fine spicy finish. Tannins leave dry mouthfeel. 87/100

Dokaz 2011 - The first harvest of Cabernet Sauvignon from Despotika vineyards. On the nose, distinct aroma of chocolate pralines with cherry filling, preserved fruitiness and freshness. Soft, velvety, noble mouthfeel. 89/100

Krunski Dokaz 2016 - Special Selection. The best grapes are selected and handpicked from selected plots. More complex, richer impression on the nose compared to Dokaz from the vintage 2016. Lush, soft, layered. Tannins mature, polished. Aging in French oak barrels further complemented its nobile texture, whilst adding a hint of toastiness. 91/100

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