BONNIEVALE WINES have upped their game in recent years and the title of Discovery of the Show at the 2019 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show for Best Value Gold Medallist is a sign that their intent goes deeper than face value. Yet “unpretentious” is stated on the label, and R97 a bottle from the cellar is “welcoming and soothing” indeed for a top-of-the-range wine which the powers that be choose not to call their flagship, let alone one of South Africa’s best or world class. One of the challenges going forward is to improve distribution so that more of those outside Bonnievale and the Robertson Wine Valley can get at it more easily!

BONNIEVALE BARREL SELECT CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2015
WO Bonnievale – from a single vineyard on high-lying slopes. Fermentation initially on the skins before pressing, completed in American and French oak barrels (50:50). 15 months in wood.
Alc 13.3 | RS 3.1 | TA 6.0 | pH 3.5
Producers’ Tasting Notes: prominent black current and spicy aromas; complexity with smokiness; berry and plum, with a hint of dark chocolate aromas from barrel contact.
Cellaring: ageing potential of up to six years after vintage.
Pairing Suggestions: a big wine for a big fish, or enjoy with oxtail stew or beef; also good with game dishes, and perhaps a chocolate fondue.
R97pb at the cellar door.