Raats Family Wines, Cabernet Franc

A sexy, luscious Cabernet Franc that is the definition of elegance. Harmoniously integrated flavours of blackberry, black cherry and plum mingle with tobacco, cinnamon and spice. Tannins are soft and gentle on the palate, and hints of dark chocolate and minerality on the long finish. A wine gently crafted with great love, and to be enjoyed the same way.

From their highest lying vineyards, between 300 and 400 meters above sea level, grown exclusively in decomposed dolomite granite soils. Vines are unirrigated and yield approximately 6 tons per hectare.

Grapes were hand sorted three times, crushed and left to cold soak on the skins for five days. After fermentation the grapes are basket pressed and allowed to undergo malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks and then aged for 16 to 18 months before bottling. Neither fined nor filtered. Fermentation Temperature: 24 to 26°C. Followed by 18 months in oak, with 15% being new barrels.

Vinous 93 Points
A very engaging nose, more savoury than other Cabernet Francs, featuring blood, meat juices, white pepper and fennel. Wonderful. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and finely judged acidity. Sour cherry and black truffle develop toward the harmonious finish. There is a beguiling purity to this Cabernet Franc, and it will age supremely well in bottle. 93 Points, NM, June 2022.