Cabernet Franc

A remarkable wine for serious meat dishes

The fruit originated from a single vineyard block that was established in 2007 on high potential soil, namely Tukulu, and faces North-East. The 7 wire Vertical Shoot Positioning (VSP) trellis system, drop irrigation and narrow planted (2.0m x 1.0m) and clone CF623 was planted. Annual production of around 5 and 7 tons/ha.

The grapes were handpicked and transported to the cellar for processing. Whole berry fermentation commenced in a stainless-steel tank and French oak cask with twice daily pump-overs to ensure the delicate extraction of tannins. The total skin contact time was around 21 days before pressing. Malo-lactic fermentation followed 300L French oak barrels of which 33% were first fill. A barrel selection of only the best barrel were made for the final blend. Total barrel maturation period of 18 months.

Down to earth with a rich history and winemaking tradition, Blaauwklippen produces wines of distinction in harmony with the simplicity of country living. Shaped by centuries, people are at the heart of Blaauwklippen’s legacy that is shared in abundance with contemporary design and artisanal flair. In 1977 the first Zinfandel vineyards to be planted in South Africa were established on Blaauwklippen with the first vintage released in 1980. This pioneering spirit led us to produce world-class Zinfandel for decades and today we remain one of only three Zinfandel producers in the country. Launched in 1984, the Blaauwklippen Blending Competition is the only one of its kind in South Africa, aimed at consumers rather than producers, inviting wine-lovers to try out the art of wine blending for themselves. Narina Cloete has been the winemaker at Blaauwklippen since June 2016. She graduated with an Honours BSc Agriculture (Oenology) cum laude from the University of Stellenbosch. She serves on various wine judging panels including the South African Young Wine Show, FNB Top 10 Sauvignon Blanc, Cape Vintners Classification, Blaauwklippen Blending Competition, Veritas Awards and the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. She also judged in Spain at the 2018 Zarcillo International Wine Competition. The Blaauwklippen Family Market, held every Sunday, is a popular Winelands destination with an array of food, arts and crafts, live music, a monthly antiques fair and the estate’s child-friendly facilities and activities.