Boekenhoutskloof Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Description

Boekenhoutskloof Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is quite simply a gorgeous, elegant Cabernet Sauvignon. A cool start to the 2021 season and subsequent moderate temperatures meant long, slow ripening of the grapes. This in turn leads to elegance, deep colour and enhanced aromas and flavours. Boekenhoutskloof describes it as having “a more refined claret-like structure with dark fruits and graphite”. Boekenhoutskloof Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 tastes primarily of black fruit – blackberries, black cherries and blueberries – with spices, dark chocolate and distinct graphite notes (just like a St Julién claret). In most vintages I am more of a fan of Boekenhoutskloof Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon – I have the 2019 in stock – but for 2021 it had to be this Stellenbosch Cabernet. The wine is silky in texture. It is mouth-filling or as the wine producer says “plush” with just sufficient tannins to make sure this will keep for a number of years and develop further. However it is ready to drink now if you cannot wait – I wrote in my tasting notes in October 2024 “VERY drinkable!”

The Boekenhoutskloof label features seven chairs made from the Boekenhout, an indigenous Cape Beech tree, as homage to “the skills of 18th century craftsmen and their achievements in creating beauty from natural sources, just like the pursuit of fine wine-making.” Marc Kent is the chief winemaker and driving force behind Boekenhoutskloof. He likes to experiment with the unconventional but his principal commitment is to quality. For a stunning white wine from the same producer, try this Semillon.