South African Cab

Yesterday was a very interesting day. Due to the fact that Reading is still covered in snow I still couldn't get my car off the drive so I managed to get to work using public transport (there were still no buses or trains running in our area - so it was a very long cold walk to the first buses stop in use!). I got home quite late - cold and exhausted. When I arrived home Pinot Guy (who is currently staying with us) had opened a bottle of wine that he had just brought back from South Africa. He is determined to change my mind on South African wine. Most of the wines I have tasted from South Africa have not really impressed me. This wine however could definitely begin to change my mind.

Uitkyk Estate, 'Carlonet' Cabernet Sauvignon, 2006, Simonsberg, Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Big, ripe, dark fruits. Thick bramble fruit aromas, plenty of strong oak. Beautiful deep aromas of leather and sultry tobacco. The palate is brooding with good length and balance. Firm tannins with good complexity. After some air the palate has more stewed bramble fruits with hints of prunes. Lovely wine, good purity of fruit and complexity. 4.5/5 (14% abv)