BEST GRAPES in Stellenbosch, matured in small oak barrels, focus on detail. That’s the short story about this “handcrafted masterpiece” in a heavyweight bottle from Stellenview of Devon Valley, Stellenbosch: Kruger Family Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, the judges’ favourite red at the 2019 Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show. A longer version of how it came about tells of a partnership involving winemaker-proprietor Reino Kruger and Bernard Fontannaz of nearby Devon View Winery, fruit from vineyards in various areas of Stellenbosch over-and-above the 12 hectares at Stellenview, and a successful business with 95% of production sold outside South Africa.

According to Michael Fridjhon, chairman of the Trophy Wine Show: “Intense cassis and black fruit aromas, ripe but not overly opulent. Plush and concentrated on the palate, with quite creamy tannins held in check by a savoury freshness. Good length.”

Negotiations are in progress with a view to distribution via the country’s larger supermarket chains. In the meantime, local winelovers can purchase via Cybercellar and the Wine of the Month Club. Wine tastings are by appointment only, but things will change once the restaurant at Stellenview is up and running – still on the drawing board at the time of writing.

KRUGER FAMILY RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2017
WO Stellenbosch. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aged for 16 to 24 months in French oak barrels.
Alc 14.2% | RS 3 | TA 5.4 | pH 3.6
Producer’s Tasting Notes: on the nose, plum and blackcurrant fruit, dark chocolate, blueberry, hints of vanilla and some light spice; on the palate, dark smooth fruit with well-rounded tannin structure.
R180 per bottle.