Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon

Four single hill vineyards in the Franschhoek Valley, aged for 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 lies in the hinterland of Franschhoek, one of the coolest climatic areas of the Western Cape. The mountainous slopes produce slowly ripening grapes with natural freshness – unusual for South African Cabernet Sauvignon, which otherwise often tends towards warmth and richness.

In the glass, a dark ruby ​​red. On the nose, ripe blackberry and cassis, underpinned by lavender, thyme, and a subtle garrigue spice – as if southern France were speaking through South African soil. On the palate, precise and taut: fine-grained, powdery tannins, a clean fruit structure, and a long, herbaceous finish without heaviness.

• Food pairing: Leg of lamb with rosemary, beef fillet, mature Manchego cheese
• Temperature: 16–18 °C
• Drinking window: now until 2030