Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc

Serve with roast leg of lamb, also great with matured cheese and preserves.

The vineyard is planted in deep, well-drained Oakleaf and Clovelly-type soils. With the row direction in an east-west orientation, it allows the vineyard to benefit from vertical penetration of sunlight into a sprawling canopy, preventing sunburn and allowing for slower ripening and good development during ripening. One of the last varietals to ripen on Doolhof, this vineyard shows much promise for future vintages.

The grapes were picked by hand in Feb 2022 and fermented in stainless steel. Barrel aging followed for 12 months in 40% new 300L French oak barrels.

The valley in which Doolhof lies is blessed with unique and varied terroirs. The microclimates, growing conditions and soil types make it ideal for growing wine grapes. The Estate lies between Bain’s Kloof and the Groenberg Mountain Range. The result is soils that are finer, more balanced and deeper than in the surrounding countryside with clay content evenly distributed. A combination of Malmesbury shale, homogenic Glenrosa and Clovelly soils ensure that the roots are able to descend to four metres or beyond. Roughly 40 of the farm’s 380 hectares are planted to vine. Soils, growing conditions and microclimates vary considerably across this large expanse (which reaches up into Bain’s Kloof), and each grape varietal is faithfully wedded to its ideal terroir. Two white varietals, Sauvignon Blanc and Chardonnay, are grown, with a substantial number of reds. They include Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot, Pinotage and Shiraz. The white varietals are planted on the eastern slopes of the Groenberg, which allow the grapes cooler days and less direct sunlight. The late sunrise and early sunset also allow for a longer ripening process, enhancing the elegance of the award winning wines.