2021 Boekenhoutskloof - Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon (750ml)

Boekenhoutskloof's history stretches back to 1776, when the farm was established in a remote pocket of the Franschhoek Valley, its name taken from the indigenous Cape Beech, or boekenhout, growing along the ravine above the property. The estate lay dormant for two centuries until 1993, when winemaker Marc Kent and a group of partners bought and replanted it, releasing their first vintage in 1996 and building it into one of South Africa's most respected producers.

This Stellenbosch bottling is sourced from two vineyard parcels, north-west facing slopes on the Helderberg Mountain and a south-east facing block at Vlottenburg, both planted on decomposed granite mixed with Table Mountain sandstone and koffieklip. Cool, damp conditions through the 2021 winter delayed budbreak, and a dry, moderate growing season followed, producing small, concentrated berries. The wine, entirely Cabernet Sauvignon with no Cabernet Franc in the blend, was fermented spontaneously in concrete tanks before aging 22 months in French oak, sixty percent of it new.

The nose is dark and brooding, layered with cassis, blackberry, and sweet spice over a distinct graphite edge. The palate is opulent yet refined, with fine, velvety tannins and a long, claret-like finish. Pour it with grilled ribeye, venison, or dark chocolate.