Source: Tim Atkin MW South Africa 2021 Special Report (Tim Atkin-97 pts, #1 Red Wine Discovery of the year Award)

Very few recent South African releases have been as eagerly awaited as this 2018 red from the old Cordoba property on the flank of the Helderberg. And it doesn’t disappoint in the slightest. Cabernet Franc-centred, with 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, the new crescendo is a beautifully refined, detailed red from 21-year-old vines. Violet and cut grass aromas lead into a palate that is fresh, bright and comparatively low in alcohol with filigree tannins, subtle wood, fine tension and the focus and balance to age. What a d’but!

Source: Winemaker,

Minimal intervention is preferred throughout our vinification process. Once handpicked, our grapes are carefully transferred to our cellar. Pods are then utilised for gentle gravitational movement within the cellar environment. This ultimately leads to wines with a refined tannin structure, balance, tension and longevity, not only in taste but also with bottle maturation.

This classical wine has remained true to its composition since it was first produced in the 1990’s. A Bordeaux blend of note, dominated by Cabernet franc, amplified by Merlot and complemented by Cabernet Sauvignon.

All grapes on the estate are hand-picked. Once received in the cellar, the grapes are gently transferred by means of gravity to both stainless steel and cement vessels for fermentation. A period of cold soaking follows, which enables rich extraction of colour, elegant aromas and bright flavour. Extended maceration follows at the conclusion of fermentation, which assists in providing the wine with soft texture, increased colour intensity and complexity.

Our wine is matured in a combination of 225 liters oak barrels, 9000 liters Foudre vessels and traditional 4500 liters cement tanks for a period of three years. These different vessels each add a multitude of elements to the wine, ranging from fruity character to subtle wood influences. These elements are brought selectively together to form a harmonious whole, during the winemaking process.

Alc. 13.5 %

20 years and older vines

Wine of Origin Stellenbosch

65% Cabernet Franc | 30% Merlot | 5% Cabernet Sauvignon