Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon

Four hillside single vineyards in the Franschhoek Valley, 22 months in French barriques – the Cabernet Sauvignon from Boekenhoutskloof shows what South Africa's oldest wine valley can do when vineyard selection and patience come together.

Boekenhoutskloof is located in the hinterland of Franschhoek, one of the climatically coolest corners of the Western Cape. The mountain sites bring slowly ripening grapes with natural freshness – unusual for South African Cabernet, which often tends towards warmth and opulence.

Dark ruby red in the glass. Ripe blackberry and cassis on the nose, underlaid by lavender, thyme, and a fine garrigue spice – as if Southern France were speaking through South African soil. Precise and taut on the palate: fine-grained, powdery tannins, a clean fruit structure, and a long, herb-accented finish without heaviness.

• Food pairing: Leg of lamb with rosemary, beef fillet, aged Manchego
• Temperature: 16–18 °C