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.
59 entries were received from 46 producers for this year’s competition. 13 wines were rated 90 or higher on the 100-point quality scale and these were recognised during an event held at Burrata restaurant situated at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock on Wednesday, 22 June.
The top wines were as follows:
94 - Groot Constantia Gouverneurs Reserve Red 2013
93 - Ernie Els Signature 2013 | Mveme Raats MR de Compostella 2014
92 - Delaire Graff Botmaskop 2014 | Hartenberg The Mackenzie 2012 | Spier Creative Block 5 2013 | Vriesenhof Kallista 2010
91 - Dombeya Fenix 2011 | Eikendal Classique 2014 | Uva Mira O.T.V. 2014
90 - Creation Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon Petit Verdot 2014 | Diemersdal Private Collection 2014 | Rustenberg John X Merriman 2013
As producer of the best wine overall, Groot Constantia won a new 300-litre Selection range barrel from Tonnellerie Sylvain worth nearly R14 000.
A full report on the state of the category can be found on the Winemag.co.za site.
This competition is a companion project to the RisCura White Hot Wine Awards begun in 2013 and featuring Sauvignon Blanc-Semillon blends, the white wine traditionally associated with Bordeaux. Results of the White Hot Wine Awards will made public on 7 September.
Join the conversation and follow the action on twitter #RisCuraRedHot
WInemag.co.za, in conjunction with RisCura are hosting a Cape Town Public Tastings events to showcase the top-rated Bordeaux-style Red Blends. Tickets are available online for 29 June at Southern Sun The Cullinan.