Stellenbosch Wine Routes members have done it again in producing world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. It is the unique combination of soils, sites and skilled winemakers was yet again proven in the 2019 Prescient Cabernet Sauvignon Report released on Friday, 26 May 2019.
According to the judge’s key findings, 2017 could prove to be an even better vintage than the much-acclaimed 2015 for South African Cabernet Sauvignon, with six of this year’s top 10, coming from 2017. The judges also agreed that Stellenbosch certainly owned the category – with nine of the top 10, and 34 of the 43 wines to rate 90, originating from this district.
Cabernet Sauvignon, is the most widely planted red wine variety in South Africa, and requires the perfect terroir, soil and plenty of sun but with moderate temperatures and well-drained, weathered shale and granite soils. And Stellenbosch ticks all of these boxes.
“It’s not like Stellenbosch chose Cabernet… Cabernet chose Stellenbosch. There are many properties here with long track records that need to be respected. It’s clear that Cab is Stellenbosch’s calling card and I think the variety has got a great future,” says Johan Malan.
9 out of the Top 10 Cabernets originate from Stellenbosch district:
Blaauwklippen 2017 – 93
Croydon Vineyards Covenant 2017 – 95
Delaire Graff Reserve 2017 – 93
Fleur Du Cap Series Privée 2016 – 92
Kleine Zalze Vineyard Selection 2017 – 93
Le Riche 2016 – 93
Neil Ellis Stellenbosch 2017 – 92
Rust en Vrede Estate Vineyards 2017 – 94
Strydom Rex 2016 – 93
Other Stellenbosch Cabs performing well were Alto 2015, Dornier Equanimity 2016, Ernie Els Proprietor's 2015, Glenelly Lady May 2013, Lanzerac 2016, Morgenster 2014, Cavalli Colt 2016,
Meerlust 2015, Peter Falke Exclusive Blend 2014, Simonsig Labyrinth 2015, Spier 21 Gables 2015, Warwick The Blue Lady 2016 and Waterford 2016,
“It is great to see such a diverse range of Stellenbosch producers reaching the top echelon of South African Cab production. This is a further testament that Stellenbosch is truly the home of Cabernet in Africa”, Concludes Christo le Riche – Chairman, Stellenbosch Cabernet Collective.
Read the full report on https://winemag.co.za/the-prescient-cabernet-sauvignon-report-2019/