Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon

This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with a variety of rich and savory dishes. It is an excellent companion to grilled meats such as beef fillet, lamb rack, or barbecued ribs. The wine’s tannic structure and deep flavors also complement slow-cooked dishes like beef bourguignon or osso buco. For a vegetarian pairing, consider roasted vegetable dishes, such as stuffed bell peppers or eggplant Parmesan. The wine’s complexity makes it a good match for mature cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda.

The grapes for this wine are sourced from select vineyard sites in the Franschhoek Valley, known for its unique microclimate and terroir that contribute to the quality of the fruit. The valley's location provides a combination of warm days and cool nights, which helps to preserve the natural acidity and allows for the slow ripening of the grapes. The soils are primarily composed of alluvial and sandy loam, which offer excellent drainage and contribute to the wine’s refined tannin structure. Sustainable farming practices, including careful canopy management and green harvesting, ensure optimal grape quality and flavor concentration.

The Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is aged for 18 to 20 months in French oak barrels, with approximately 30% new oak to provide subtle oak influence without overpowering the fruit. This aging process allows the wine to develop complexity and integrate the tannins, resulting in a well-balanced, refined wine. The use of both new and older barrels helps achieve a harmonious blend of oak, fruit, and varietal characteristics.

After meticulous hand-harvesting and sorting, the grapes are destemmed and gently crushed. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks, with regular punch-downs and pump-overs to enhance color extraction and tannin structure. Following fermentation, the wine undergoes malolactic fermentation in oak barrels, which adds a creamy texture and depth of flavor.

Boekenhoutskloof was established in 1776. Located in the furthest corner of the beautiful Franschhoek valley the farm’s name means “ravine of the Boekenhout” (pronounced Book-n-Howed). Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech tree greatly prized for furniture making. In 1993 the farm and homestead was bought and restored and a new vineyard planting programme was established that now includes Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon Cabernet Franc Grenache Semillon and Viognier.