When the maiden vintage of Taaibosch was released in 2018, everyone was blown away by the amazing quality that this young winemaker, Schalk-Willem Joubert, could assemble in a bottle. Critics such as Tim Atkin raved about this wine, but everyone was scared for the next vintage…can you make an amazing wine twice? Well, Schalk-Willem is currently on his third vintage and still palming in the awards. As the word crescendo implies, it is only getting bigger and better as time goes on!
This wine has a deep dark ruby colour in the glass. It is forthcoming on the nose with complex notes of perfume, graphite and berries on the nose. The first entry is a very solid Cabernet Franc one, with ripe blackberries, plums, peppers and graphite. It develops slowly on the palate and showcases a perfect balance on the palate. It has a long finish that is fresh and grippy.
I have not tasted many Cabernet Franc-dominated red blends in South Africa that is produced so beautifully with both power and finesse. This wine can be very slightly chilled or not, decanted or not, but certainly enjoyed by all. It will make a great companion for some venison steaks, ostrich burgers or roast beef. It is value for money and a must-try wine for all red wine lovers.
Producer: Taaibosch
Variety: Cabernet Franc 65%, Merlot 26%, Cabernet Sauvignon 9%
Vintage: 2019
Origin: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa
Winemaker: Schalk-Willem Joubert
Closure: Cork
Alcohol: 13.5%
RS: 2.7g/l
Average price: R420
Rating: 98/100

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