Variety: Cabernet/Cabernet Franc/Merlot
Tasting notes:
The saturated ruby colour is complemented by a dense and interwoven complexity of tilled earth, nutmeg, bouquet garni, with classic cedar and redand black fruits. The wine remains classic, refined, with an elegant structure. The tannins are precise, and together with the clever use of new oak, creates the perfect backdrop to host the complex fruit spectrum. A long, and youthful finish.
Reviews:
98 points, Tim Atkin MW 2022
This brilliant red blend – now part of the Cape’s elite – comes from the same trio of vineyards each year. A triumph in a difficult vintage, it has the lowest alcohol since 1993 and artfully combines Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% Cabernet Franc and 11% Merlot, with ageing in new oak. Poised, structured, yet fresh, with cedarwood, red cherry and blackberry fruit, elegant tannins and a long, balanced finish. Classy stuff. 2025-35
96 points, Winemag.co.za July 2022
A triumph, surpassing for me both the much-celebrated 2015 and 2017 vintages. Consisting of 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc and 11% Merlot, it was matured for 24 months in 100% new oak but you hardly notice. Haunting aromatics of red and black berries, tea leaf, violets, fresh herbs and the merest hint of oak spice while the palate has lovely fruit purity, bright acidity and fine tannins. Very tight with great refinement and poise, it gives the sense of being able to age for decades.
4 ½ Stars 2023 Platter’s South African Wine Guide
Adds to the reputation as one of the Cape’s finest red wines in 19 (93 pts). Expressive aromas of cedar & cassis dominate the still-youthful intrusion of oak-derived notes. 75% cab with cab franc & merlot. Like all these, deserves years in bottle. Abrie Beeslaar’s tannin management is superb: the structure informs & controls but is subtle, supple & unobtrusive. At a little over 13% alc its harmony is remarkable.
91 points, Wine Spectator Web Only – 2023
A balanced, medium- to full-bodied red, revealing ripe boysenberry, black licorice and candied violet notes mixed with charred toast, tangy orange peel and red currant flavors. Well-spiced and fresh, with chalky tannins firming the finish. Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Best from 2025 through 2029. 3,500 cases made, 150 cases imported.