Warwick as Number 1 in Decanter Panel Tasting
The Warwick Cabernet Franc 2022 was named the best New World Cabernet Franc in the large Decanter Panel Tasting, out of approximately 113 submitted wines. This placement not only confirms the exceptional quality of the vintage but also the consistently high standard at which Warwick operates. Already in 2024, the 2020 vintage won first place at the Blick Tasting, showing that this success is no coincidence but rather a true pedigree.
South Africa presented itself in impressive form at the tasting. Of 13 submitted wines, four were rated as Outstanding and seven as Highly Recommended. Names like Damascene further underscore the stylistic depth of the region. Decanter sees this as a clear sign that South Africa is now one of the leading origins for characterful Cabernet Francs.
Single Vineyard Lone Oak: The Foundation for Exceptional Quality
The origin contributes significantly to this profile. The grapes come from the single vineyard Lone Oak, located at an altitude of 260 meters, offering ideal conditions for this grape variety. Deep soils, a balanced climate, and precise vineyard work create the basis for a wine that is both powerful and refined. Maturation for 23 months in French oak, some of which was new barrels, adds additional structure and depth without masking the aromatic clarity.
Warwick's Signature: Tradition Meets Modern Precision
With this vintage, Warwick continues a long tradition. Founder Norma Ratcliffe is considered a pioneer of South African Cabernet Franc and was the first female winemaker in the country to bottle this varietal as a single varietal. Today, winemaker JD Pretorius carries on this legacy with a modern interpretation. The 2022 vintage particularly clearly demonstrates how careful winemaking and a deep understanding of the terroir lead to a wine that is internationally competitive while possessing an unmistakable South African identity.
A Wine that Represents Stellenbosch Internationally
Why the 2022 Vintage Is Particularly Convincing
The Decanter report highlights how consistently the wine demonstrates its strengths. The tasters emphasize the dense fruit, the stylish balance, and the long, elegant development on the palate. This judgment confirms Stellenbosch's role as an important origin for characterful, high-quality Cabernet Francs. The Warwick Cabernet Franc 2022 appears powerful, yet remains precise and finely drawn. It is already captivating but also promises impressive development in the future.
The Style: Precise, Powerful, Yet Elegant
The Warwick Cabernet Franc 2022 impresses with a style that is both powerful and refined. Precisely placed fruit aromas, an elegant texture, and a clean, clear finish give it a modern expressiveness. The wine shows structured depth without losing its lightness, once again confirming the high form in which Warwick currently vinifies.
Top Rating
WARWICK
Cabernet Franc – 2022
CHF 29.00 instead of CHF 39.00
96 Points by Decanter
Floral and perfumed, with aromas of violets, cassis, and dried rosemary. Dark chocolate and thyme, cassis and blueberries follow on the palate, with firm, fine-grained tannins, as befits the 2020 vintage. The tannins are well-balanced by a dense fruit core, supported by fresh acidity.
Decanter as a Benchmark for International Wine Quality
Decanter is one of the most important wine magazines in the world and stands for independent, international wine criticism. A top placement in the Panel Tasting is considered a renowned seal of quality and has global influence.
Conclusion: A South African Cabernet Franc of World-Class Quality
This vintage is an outstanding example of how far the South African wine world has come in recent years and why international trade media are increasingly turning their attention to Stellenbosch. The Warwick Cabernet Franc 2022 combines origin, craftsmanship, and character into a wine that convinces in every respect and deserves its top rating. A wine for collectors, connoisseurs, and anyone who wants to experience the future of Cabernet Franc in their glass.
