2016 Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon by Boekenhoutskloof

Juicy blackberry, rose petal, fresh strawberry. Boysenberry preserves, rosemary sprig, perfectly-ripe Bing cherry. An impressively deep yet lifted procession of blueberry, dark plum, and pomegranate leads a highly complex yet thoroughly lively display playfully bursting with irresistible floral tones of cherry blossoms and hydrangeas. Notes of pine needle, mint, tobacco, and sage gently impart captivatingly fresh herbal character that is balanced against pretty baking spices including nutmeg, vanilla, and brown sugar. Hints of mocha and shaved milk chocolate delicately contribute a pinch of understated opulence that rises above subtle earthy impressions of graphite and granite. Immaculately pure, clean, and pretty on both the nose and the palate while retaining outstanding depth and concentration; exhibiting a restrained and irresistibly delicate presentation complete with a gorgeously silk texture. Medium bodied with soft yet persistent tannin backed by bright acidity. This 2016 Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon by Boekenhoutskloof is a classically-styled and characterful red from South Africa.

Founded in 1776 in South Africa's Franschhoek Valley located due-east of Cape Town, Boekenhoutskloof is one of the oldest new world wineries in operation and continues to produce exceptional wine nearly 250 years from its creation. This bottling, crafted by Boekenhoutskloof using Cabernet Sauvignon plus 6% Cabernet Franc sourced from their estate vineyards in Franschhoek, showcases how prioritizing elegance and restraint is a formula that never goes out of style. This wine effortlessly spills a range of bright yet complex black, blue, and red fruits that remain vibrant and lifted despite their excellent depth, and it backs them with aromatic floral tones, intriguing herbs, delicate baking spices, and a touch of earthiness. This is a well made and extremely age-worthy creation that can surely hold up to decades of cellaring, yet it is already absolutely delicious today. Wow.