2019, Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

Winery: Delaire Graff Estate is renowned for its high-altitude vineyards and exceptional terroir on the Helshoogte Mountain Pass, offering cooling sea breezes and excellent soils. Established as a top-tier destination in South Africa's Cape Winelands by Laurence Graff in 2003, the estate has an ultra-modern winery and boasts accolades for its wines, including a prestigious Five-Star John Platter rating for its Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve.

Wine Region: Stellenbosch, within the Coastal Region of Western Cape, South Africa, is celebrated for its diverse microclimates and soil types, ideal for producing structured reds with elegance and fresh whites capturing the essence of the harvest.

Varietal: The Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, known for its big structure, soft tannins, and elegance, is a testament to the estate's commitment to quality. The winemaker's goal is to showcase the varietal's power combined with finesse, indicative of the Stellenbosch terroir.

Vintage: Weather conditions in Stellenbosch's high-altitude vineyards, with long, cool winters and a slow ripening season, contribute significantly to the complexity and class of the wines produced, including the Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve.

Description:

• Appearance: Likely to exhibit a deep ruby color, characteristic of a well-crafted Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Aroma: Expect a bouquet with notes of oak, vanilla, and possibly chocolate, typical for a Cabernet aged in barrels​.
• Palate: Velvet textured, with layers of cassis, dark fruit, and spicy flavors​.
• Cellaring Potential: Given its structure and profile, the wine is likely to age beautifully, developing more complexity over the years.
• Serving Temperature: Best served at around 16-18°C (60-64°F) to allow the flavors to fully express themselves.
• Food Pairings: Ideal with robust dishes like grilled red meats, rich stews, or hard cheeses that complement its bold profile.

A bottle of Delaire Graff Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve would be a distinguished addition to any cellar, promising the embodiment of South African winemaking excellence and the potential for graceful aging. Its inclusion would offer a luxurious experience of the storied Stellenbosch terroir for years to come.