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The Nebukadnesar is the flagship wine of Babylonstoren and it is a real crowd pleaser when served among Bordeaux lovers. The label itself is impressive, with each bottle numbered by hand and less than 35,000 bottles produced annually. The name of this wine is also apt, referring to Nebuchadnezzar the Great, who played a major role in Babylonian history and the creation of the construction of the Hanging Gardens of Babylon – if I think of impressive gardens, I think of the Babylonstoren farm.
This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and a small addition of Malbec. The wines were vinified separately and matured in 85% first fill French oak barrels for 23 months. After blending them together in tanks, they settled for an additional five months before they are released.
In the glass, it has a deep ruby colour and it is forthcoming on the nose. The nose delivers black fruit, spices and tobacco leaves with a hint of leather. It delivers well on the palate with blackberries, blueberries, ripe plum, brambleberries, and black cherries. Spicy notes that are associated with flowers develop on the palate: violets, thyme and tomato stalk. The graphite and tobacco leaves notes are elegant. The tannins are bold on this wine, but not overpowering. It has a long finish of black fruit.
This wine will work well with roast lamb, steak, potjiekos or game. It can also be enjoyed on its own. It appreciates a slight chill but does not need to be decanted yet. It is ready to drink now or within the next 12 years. This is a well-balanced wine that does not stand back for anything, it is certainly worth a try and the money.
Producer: Babylonstoren
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 49%, Merlot 25%, Petit Verdot 13.5%, Cabernet Franc 12%, Malbec 0.5%
Vintage: 2021
Origin: Simonsberg Mountain, Franschhoek, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Klaas Stoffberg
Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 14.5%
RS: 3.0g/l
Average price: R700
Rating: 93/100
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