This is one of South Africa’s great Cabernets, a particular success in a difficult vintage. It has all the richness and power, but it combines that with elegance and structure. The tannins are dry, promising good aging, while the acidity comes from ripe black currant and black plum fruits. Age for another five years at least.
— R.V.
(11/1/2006)
Mouthfilling, juicy and smooth, this appealing Cabernet starts with a mellow nose of leather, spice and red berries followed by balanced flavors of spice, toast, mocha, tobacco and black currant. Tannins are subtle but have grip. The wine is concentrated but very approachable, ideal for food pairing or enjoying on it own.
— S.K.
(12/31/2009)
From a famed Stellenbosch estate comes another fantastic vintage of the Estate red. A blend of Cabernet (53%) and Shiraz (33%), with Merlot picking up the slack, this awesome wine shows all that the Stellenbosch region can be. Nearly black in color, the nose is awash with clove, cinnamon and coffee notes that don�t overpower the dark, plummy fruit. Its rich…
— M.D.
(7/1/2006)
Firm tannins and good acidity suggest you can enjoy this wine over the next 10 years, but with beefy flavors of cassis, blackberry and tobacco you may not want to wait. Meaty on the nose, with ample oak spice and a touch of pepper adding to powerful fruit aromas, and a long, spicy finish.
— M.D.
(12/31/2006)
Intense and concentrated with thick notes of all-fruit preserves, tree bark, cigar leaf and old campfire throughout the nose and mouth. The velvety texture is amped up with assertive, lip-smacking tannins and a gripping finish that lingers endlessly. Hints of cassis skin and black tea astringency leave you primed for more.
— L.B.
(11/1/2011)
This red, made from 61% Cab Sauv, 30% Shiraz and 9% Merlot, offers attractive floral aromas of lavender, baby powder and light menthol (like a Thin Mint) to the soft but ripe dark fruit notes. The mouth offers more spice and weight than the aromas would suggest, with a firm but approachable structure and cigar box spice on the medium-length finish.
— L.B.
(3/1/2012)
Muscular spice, deep red berry and blackberry and sturdy tannins give this strength and elegance. The fruit is assertive and delicious, the mouthfeel fresh and the finish lingering. Could use a few years of aging for extra character, but today, a robust and stylish choice.
— S.K.
(9/1/2008)
Lush vanilla, cocoa and plum aromas lead into velvety waves of fresh berries, chocolate and spice on the palate. Elegant and unfolding, with a lingering fresh finish. A classic food wine.
— S.K.
(11/1/2009)