De Waal Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

De Waal Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 continues a legacy of excellence, as evidenced by its consistent high ratings in the John Platter Wine Guide and accolades across different vintages. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is a true testament to the prowess of Stellenbosch’s terroir in producing top-tier Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

This is a classical, full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon.
A dark coloured wine, full of flavour, rich black fruit aromas and some herbaceous tones.
This wine shows great balance, a great structure and a long finish.

De Waal Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 continues a legacy of excellence, as evidenced by its consistent high ratings in the John Platter Wine Guide and accolades across different vintages. This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is a true testament to the prowess of Stellenbosch’s terroir in producing top-tier Cabernet Sauvignon wines.

Accolades:

The 2015 vintage was awarded a 4.5-star rating.
The 2011 vintage was featured on the SA Sommelier Selection Wine list 2015.
Consistently receives 4 stars or more in the John Platter Wine Guide.
Tasting Notes:

Color: Deep, rich ruby red, typical of a high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon.
Nose: The wine opens with a robust bouquet of dark fruits, including blackberries and plums, enhanced by subtle undertones of cedar and spice from its oak maturation.
Palate: On the palate, it delivers a powerful yet refined experience. Structured tannins and balanced acidity frame flavors of dark cherry, cassis, and a hint of tobacco. The oak integration adds depth and complexity without overshadowing the wine’s natural fruit characteristics.
Finish: The finish is long and lingering, with a persistent presence of fruit and spice notes.
Viticulture:

Location of Vineyard: Situated on warm, north-facing slopes in Stellenbosch, ideal for Cabernet Sauvignon.
Soil Type: Predominantly gravel and loam, perfect for stressing the vines just enough to produce concentrated and flavorful berries.
Age of Vineyards: 30 years and older, which contributes to the depth and complexity of the wine.
Yield per Hectare: 6 tons per hectare, balancing quality and quantity to ensure optimal fruit development.
Trellising Method: 3 wire-hedge, which supports optimal sun exposure and fruit maturation.
Winemaking:

Fermentation & Maceration Period: 14 days, allowing for full extraction of color and flavor.
Cellar Maturation: Aged for 18 months in 225-litre French oak barriques, with 25% new wood. This careful selection of barrels ensures a delicate oak influence that complements the robust nature of the Cabernet Sauvignon.
Bottling Date: February 2022.
Food Pairing:
This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs excellently with rich meat dishes such as beef, venison, and lamb. Its structure and body also make it an ideal match for hearty stews and grilled meats.

Ageing Potential:
Designed for longevity, this wine has a maturation potential of 10 – 15 years, allowing for further development of complexity and elegance over time.

Serving Suggestions:

Best served at 16-18°C.
Decanting is recommended for at least an hour before serving to enhance its aromatics and soften the palate.
De Waal Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a reflection of careful vineyard management and skilled winemaking, promising an enriching experience for those who appreciate a well-crafted red wine.