South Africa's Cabernet Franc: Finesse, Depth, and New Elegance
The current VINUM market survey clearly shows: Cabernet Franc is experiencing a renaissance – and South Africa is playing a leading role. What was once considered a blending partner has developed into a noble, independent varietal with character at the Cape.
From Supporting Actor to Soloist
Cabernet Franc, often referred to as the "little brother" of Cabernet Sauvignon, demonstrates its full class in South Africa. In the higher altitudes and slopes of Stellenbosch, wines with clear fruit, elegant spice, and fine tannins are produced. What makes South African Cabernet Francs particularly special is their balance between structure and freshness. They show depth, but always remain vibrant and approachable – true ambassadors of a new style at the Cape.
“Characterful & noble – a grape variety with a future and potential for top wines.”
— Sigi Hiss, VINUM Editor
Two South African wines were among the top five. These wines embody everything that Cabernet Franc stands for today: elegance, fine spice, and subtle power. They are among the most exciting red wines in South Africa – and send a clear signal for the future of this varietal:
-
Van Loggerenberg Breton Cabernet Franc 2020 – Stellenbosch – 94 Points
Needs air and time. Initially a little plaster-like, then steely-chalky with fresh black pepper and cherry pits. Opens subtly in the glass. Wonderfully juicy, very clear and racy palate with great acidity and a tightly woven tannin structure. A CF as an alcoholic lightweight, yet it lacks nothing, smiling at overwhelming power. Fresh garden herbs, some juniper and a mineral-crisp finish. -
Uva Mira The Dance Cabernet Franc 2021 – Stellenbosch – 94 Points
Juicy dark wild raspberry alongside tart juniper and thyme notes and wet forest floor. Unique, yet harmonious, with licorice and some cedarwood. Wonderfully juicy with drinkability and fine, already slightly polished tannins. Walnut and black cherry in addition to the aromas on the nose. Overall, a balanced, powerful, yet always drinkable, due to its juicy acidity style. It's got something! -
Hogan Mirror for the Sun Cabernet Franc 2023 – Stellenbosch – 94 Points
Very subtle and aromatically restrained. Racy and straightforward, needs time and air. Reductive and tightly laced. Fresh acidity paired with fine wiry tannins, a firm structure, but the balance is given. Pure and even somewhat mineral. Tightly woven, yet never concentrated or opulent. As young and buttoned-up as it is, it seems to have so much potential, on which the rating is based. -
Glenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Franc 2017 – Stellenbosch – 94 Points
Eucalyptus, green herbaceous fresh nose with mint, ethereal notes, pine cones and fir needles. Racy, precise and animating. Reflection of the nose on the palate, complex, straightforward and very pure. Nevertheless, unique character and noble style. Never a fruit bomb, but soft tannins, slightly unripe raspberry and a very animating drinkability. Long and elegant. Shows that CF can also be elegant and racy.
From Soil to Glass – South Africa's Cabernet Franc Shows Character
The interplay of sunny days, cool nights, and the influence of the Atlantic creates ideal conditions for Cabernet Franc. In Stellenbosch, calcareous and slate soils produce wines that combine structure, depth, and freshness.
Winemakers focus on balance rather than over-ripeness: fine herbal notes, ripe berry fruit, and delicate wood notes – a style that is gaining international recognition.
Cabernet Franc – Elegance Meets Character
The current Vinum Report 2025 clearly shows: South Africa's Cabernet Franc has developed into a real insider tip for gourmets. With its fine herbal spice, elegant structure, and vibrant freshness, it impresses internationally – especially from regions like Stellenbosch or Elgin.
And what better accompanies this characterful grape variety than an autumnal dish with depth and sophistication?
Discover our recipe for venison loin with red wine jus, cranberry shallots, and celeriac puree. A feast for all senses and the perfect accompaniment to a glass of South African Cabernet Franc.
Venison Loin Steak with Syrah Jus & Rosemary Potatoes
Ingredients (for 4 people):
- 800 g venison loin (trimmed)
- Salt & freshly ground pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 sprig rosemary
- 1 sprig thyme
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 tbsp butter
For the red wine jus:
- 250 ml game stock
- 100 ml strong red wine (e.g., Shiraz or Merlot)
- 1 tbsp cranberries
- 1 tbsp cold butter
- Salt, pepper
- For the celeriac puree:
- 1 small celeriac (approx. 400 g)
- 1 potato
- 200 ml milk
- 1 tbsp butter
- Nutmeg, salt, pepper
For the cranberry shallots:
- 4 shallots
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp cranberries (jar)
- A dash of balsamic vinegar
Preparation
Prepare venison loin:
Season the meat with salt and pepper. Brown thoroughly on all sides in a hot pan with olive oil. Add herbs, garlic, and butter, and continue to fry the meat over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes, regularly basting with the melted butter. Then let it rest in the oven at 120 °C for about 10 minutes.
Red wine jus:
Deglaze the pan drippings with red wine, bring to a boil briefly, and reduce by half. Add game stock and cranberries, reduce for another 10 minutes. Mount with cold butter and season with salt and pepper.
Celeriac puree:
Peel celeriac and potato, cut into pieces, and cook until soft in milk. Drain, add butter, and mash finely. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Cranberry shallots:
Halve shallots, sauté until translucent in butter. Add sugar, caramelize lightly, then add cranberries and balsamic vinegar. Reduce briefly until a glossy, sweet-and-sour sauce forms.
Plating:
Place celeriac puree on the plate, slice venison loin and arrange on top. Drizzle with red wine jus and arrange cranberry shallots next to it.
Wine Recommendation
Enjoy this hearty dish with a Syrah/Shiraz from Stellenbosch or Swartland. Its dark fruit aromas, spicy notes, and fine structure harmonize wonderfully with the game and the sweet-tart cranberry sauce.
Conclusion
South Africa's Cabernet Franc represents a new generation of red wines: elegant, authentic, and full of personality. The results of the VINUM report impressively show that the Cape belongs to the world elite in this regard as well.
