Avontuur Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2020

I presented a wine tasting to a group of ladies who were rather disinterested in the white wines I offered. They sent me a list of the cultivars that they prefer and there was a tie between Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. I thought it well to offer them the best of both: a blend. When I poured the Avontuur Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot blend, the atmosphere of the event suddenly changed. They all started making remarks, saying that it smells amazing.

It did smell amazing! Black and red fruits, ripe plums, cedar wood, sweet spices, leather... This is a full-bodied wine that is a perfect blend to showcase the best of what Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot have to offer. The Cabernet Sauvignon added to the spiciness, structure and well-rounded tannins of the wine, where the Merlot added a velvety mouthfeel and fruitiness. It is well balanced on the palate and has a long lingering aftertaste of sweet spices and liquorice.

It is a diverse wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with beef, lamb and roasted chicken. I will highly recommend this wine to anyone looking for a great quality wine that comes at a really good price. This wine is available from Partners in Wine.

Producer: Avontuur Estate

Variety: Cabernet Sauvginon 50%, Merlot 50%

Vintage: 2020

Origin: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Winemaker: Jan van Rooyen

Closure: Srewtop

Alcohol:14.5%

RS: 2.1g/l

Average price: R130

Rating: 89/100