Boekenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon Stellenbosch

Claret fans will love this restrained, cool, mineral-laden wine made from selected parcels on the Helderberg's decomposed granite soils. This, the fifth vintage, includes 5% Cabernet Franc, which adds attractive violet and herb tones to the focused dark black berry, cassis and pencil-lead flavours, backed by fine-grained tannins, minty-fresh acidity and gentle oak spice. Gorgeously elegant and ageworthy. As with the Franschhoek Cabernet, it is aged 22 months in lightly toasted barriques, but here only 60% new.

With a delightful and complex nose, the 2018 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon bursts with aromas of juicy black plum, currant and crème de cassis before elegant baking spices waft out of the glass with a soft mineral essence. Medium to full-bodied, the wine displays elements of graphite and pencil shavings with notions of baked clay and dusty cherry skin before energetic acidity and firm tannins weigh on the palate. With sweet herbs and dried tobacco, the wine finishes long, complex and lingering with a firm, tannic edge. With the Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon getting the same treatment and selling at the same price, my money is on this Stellenbosch Cabernet.

Candied violet and cured tobacco notes are an aromatic thread winding through the silky mix of crushed black currant and black raspberry fruit, star anise and singed orange peel flavors in this well-meshed red. It's medium- to full-bodied and subtle, with supple tannins and fresh acidity. Long finish, with a smoky hint of charcoal in addition to the herb and spice. Drink now through 2028.

Aromas of blackberries, blueberries, dried herbs, walnuts and bark. Medium-to full-bodied with firm, polished tannins. Structured and plush with a creamy texture. Excellent focus and length. Drink or hold.