South Africa Dominates Cabernet Franc Tasting – Blick.ch Reports
A Cabernet Franc from South Africa causes a stir: A wine from Stellenbosch wins first place at the international tasting at the Hotel Schweizerhof Luzern. Blick.ch and author Alain Kunz highlight this impressive success and the strengths of South African wines.
Warwick Estate Takes the Lead
In the large Cabernet Franc tasting, where 46 wines with at least 80% Cabernet Franc were tasted blind, Warwick Estate from Stellenbosch secured the victory. With its refined structure and a perfect balance of fruit and spice, this wine left the international competition behind.
Blick.ch wine expert Alain Kunz writes: "Cabernet Franc, especially in South Africa, shows the class that the grape variety can develop." The tasting, led by a top-class jury, underlines the quality and versatility that South African wines now offer.
Photos: blick.ch
Killer Deal >6 bottles
WARWICK
Cabernet Franc – 2020
CHF 29.90 instead of CHF 39.00 – sold out
17.47 Points by BLICK
Floral and perfumed, with aromas of violets, cassis and dried rosemary. Dark chocolate and thyme, cassis and blueberries follow on the palate, with tight, fine-grained tannins, as is typical for the 2020 vintage. The tannins are well-balanced by a dense fruit core, supported by fresh acidity.
Perfect Conditions in South Africa
Cabernet Franc, a grape variety with origins in Bordeaux, finds ideal growing conditions in South Africa. The warm days and cool nights in Stellenbosch promote harmonious ripening of the grapes, which is reflected in expressive, elegant wines.
As Blick.ch notes, it is not only the climate but also the innovative winemakers and the diverse terroir that make South Africa a stronghold for premium wines. Alain Kunz observes that Warwick Estate's triumph is no coincidence, but rather proof of the high standard of South African wine production.
Best Value for Money: Rainbow’s End
In addition to the winning wine, another South African Cabernet Franc attracted particular attention: The Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc Limited Release convinced the jury with its exceptional value for money. For only CHF 24.90 (from 6 bottles), this wine offers quality that is otherwise found in much higher price categories.
This insider tip from Stellenbosch shows that South African wines not only deliver top quality but also hold genuine discoveries for wine lovers with a smaller budget.
Killer Deal >6 bottles
RAINBOW’S END
Cabernet Franc Limited – 2021
CHF 24.90 instead of CHF 35.00
17.08 Points by BLICK
The intensely dark crimson of the Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc Limited Release already invites anticipation. In the nose, aromas of dark chocolate, liquorice, and hints of typical fruit notes of plums and ripe mulberries unfold. On the palate, seductive tannins and a lush and infinitely velvety feel. The finish is reminiscent of nuances of ripe mulberries and soft nougat cream.
Conclusion: South Africa as a Star in Cabernet Franc
The report on Blick.ch by Alain Kunz clearly explains why South Africa plays a leading role in Cabernet Franc. The victory of Warwick Estate and the honorable mention of Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc are no coincidences.
South Africa combines outstanding conditions with a wine tradition shaped by passion and innovation. The wines from Stellenbosch, as demonstrated in this tasting, are among the best in the world and are a clear recommendation for anyone who appreciates Cabernet Franc.
If you would like to learn more about the exciting Cabernet Franc tasting, we recommend Alain Kunz's article on Blick.ch. There you will find all the details about the winning wines and valuable tips for your next discovery.
Article from "Blick.ch", December 15, 2024
All prices in CHF incl. VAT. Daily price as of 16.12.2024.
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