The Bordeaux region in the southwest of France is famous for its red blends, the best of which have the ability to mature with benefit for many years in bottle. The two grape varieties that feature most prominently are austere Cabernet Sauvignon and fleshy Merlot, although Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot also play a role. The style has been imitated around the world and South Africa is no exception.
Sixty entries were received from 45 producers for this year’s competition. Twenty Five wines were rated 90 or higher on the 100-point quality scale and these were recognised during an event held at Cape Town Hotel School Restaurant, Granger Bay Campus in Mouille Point on Wednesday, 6 June.
Wines to rate 90 or higher on the 100-point quality scale were as follows:
94
Thelema Rabelais 2013
Price: R475
93
Morgenster 2011
Price: R389
MR de Compostella 2014
Price: R1 050
Tokara Director's Reserve Red 2013
Price: R390
92
Holden Manz Big G 2013
Price: R495
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2015
Price: R175
Simonsig Tiara 2011
Price: R320
91
Allée Bleue Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2014
Price: R130
Beyerskloof Field Blend 2013
Price: R250
Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve 2014
Price: R367
Laibach The Ladybird 2015
Price: R100
Longridge Ekliptika 2014
Price: R480
Morgenster 2012
Price: R389
Mulderbosch Faithful Hound 2014
Price: R150
Muratie Ansela van de Caab 2013
Price: R325
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2014
Price: R175
Spier Creative Block 5 2014
Price: R149
Zorgvliet Richelle 2015
Price: R270
90
Allée Bleue L'Amour Toujours 2013
Price: R200
Creation Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot Petit Verdot 2015
Price: R190
Knorhoek Pantère 2014
Price: R190
La Vierge Nymphomane 2015
Price: R137
Villiera Monro Red 2013
Price: R170
Vriesenhof Kallista 2011
Price: R285
Vondeling Philosophie 2015
Price: R695
Thelema, as the producer of the wine judged best overall won a new 300-litre Selection barrel worth €860 (equivalent to R12 355 at the current exchange rate) from Tonnellerie Sylvain.
To read the report in full, go to Winemag.co.za.
Join the conversation and follow the action on twitter #CapeBdxRed