Cabernet Sauvignon is the world’s best travelled dark-skinned wine grape.
In its traditional home of Bordeaux, it’s a component of some the greatest wines to be had from anywhere and it’s been taken up far and wide as producers seek to emulate this.
In South Africa, it’s the second most widely planted variety making up a little under 12% of the national vineyard.
Who’s who in the zoo?
The top 10 as follows:
Rustenberg Peter Barlow 2009
Price: Not yet released.
Very classy as you might expect of this label in what was generally considered a great vintage. The nose
shows red and black berries plus attractive oak-derived vanilla and spice. Real depth of fruit on the
palate but there’s no shortage of freshness while the tannins are suitably firm. Lovely salty edge to the
finish. Drink now – 2019.
Waterford 2011
Price: R175
A particularly refined offering. Red and black berries plus some tea leaf-like fragrance on the nose. Full
but balanced – good concentration, lovely freshness and sleek tannins. Drink now – 2018.
Knorhoek Pantére 2011
Price: R130
Cassis, vanilla and some delicate tea-leaf like perfume on the nose. A seamless wine with super depth of
fruit, bright acidity and fine tannins. Lovely dry finish. Drink now – 2021.
Rickety Bridge Paulina’s Reserve 2011
Price: R195
Plenty of controlled power here although somewhat curiously more red than black berries in evidence.
A distinct vanilla note also to the fore. The palate is rich and full with dense fruit, fresh acidity and chewy
tannins. Drink now – 2018.
Spier Woolworths Reserve 2011
Price: R129.95
Red and black berries, earth and attractive oak. Big and bold – sweet fruit, fresh acidity, firm but fine
tannins. Drink now – 2018.
Spier Woolworths The Hutton Single Vineyard 2012
Price: R129.95
Cassis and attractive oak notes – caramel and pencil shavings. Succulent fruit, fresh acidity and nice
tannic grip – powerful but balanced. Drink now – 2019.
Thelema 2010
Price: R185
Cassis and a hint of fresh herbs. Full but balanced with pure fruit, fresh acidity and nice firm tannins.
Classically styled with a long finish. Drink now – 2017.
Courtesy of the Christian Eedes Cabernet Sauvignon report.