Cabernet Sauvignon
by Thelema
If a wine unites depth, structure, and elegance – it deserves the spotlight.
That’s exactly what defines the Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 from Stellenbosch – and why it’s our Red Wine of the Year 2025.
Why is this wine so special?
Thelema Mountain Vineyards sits high on the south-eastern slopes of the Simonsberg in Stellenbosch – one of the region’s most elevated and coolest vineyard sites. These conditions, combined with deep red granite soils, create the perfect environment for growing grapes with intensity, finesse, and character.
Thelema is deeply committed to expressing its unique terroir. Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: intervene as little as possible, so the vineyard can speak for itself.
All grapes are estate-grown, carefully handpicked and gently handled to preserve their purity. The 2021 vintage is a prime example of this approach – showing refined aromatics, ripe structure, and remarkable balance.
It’s no wonder Thelema rates this vintage 9 out of 10. We’d say: well deserved.
Red Wine of the Year 2024
THELEMA
Cabernet Sauvignon – 2021
CHF 19.90 instead of CHF 35.00
Ratings:
5 Stars by Platter’s
93 Points by Tim Atkin
96 Points by Greg Sherwood MW
93 Points by IWC
95 Points by Decanter
Tasting Notes:
Complex, powerful, yet precise – this Cabernet Sauvignon opens with aromas of blackcurrant leaf, roasted coffee, and a hint of leather. On the palate, layers of dark chocolate and ripe blackberry round out the flavour profile.
Fine-grained tannins provide structure and grip without overpowering the wine’s finesse. The finish is long, dense, and leaves you reaching for the next glass.
Perfect pairing…
Think butterflied lamb with rosemary and creamy potato gratin – or simply a great evening with friends. This wine rises to the occasion, no matter what’s on the table.
Thelema – A Pioneer of Stellenbosch
In 1983, Gyles Webb took over what was then a charming but run-down fruit farm. He replaced the old orchards with vines, laying the foundation for what would become one of South Africa’s most respected estates.
By 1988, the first wines under the Thelema label were released. Just a few years later, in the mid-1990s, demand had grown so rapidly that new vintages often sold out within weeks.
Today, Gyles Webb is regarded as a true icon of the South African wine industry.
The estate is perched at the top of the Helshoogte Pass, surrounded by ancient oak trees, dramatic mountain views – and Thelema’s now-famous, colourful peacocks.
Vineyards are planted at elevations between 370 and 640 metres above sea level, with south-facing slopes and deep red soils. As one of the highest and coolest sites in the region, Thelema is perfectly positioned to produce elegant, long-lived wines with true sense of place.
The Current Range – Diversity with Distinction
Thelema’s current portfolio reflects both the versatility and stylistic confidence of the estate.
At its heart are characterful reds: the classic Cabernet Sauvignon, the distinctive and fresh The Mint Cabernet, the silky Merlot, and the spicy, expressive Shiraz.
A particular highlight is the Rabelais – a carefully selected blend made only in exceptional vintages. It delivers impressive depth, complexity, and true ageing potential.
White wines also play an important role at Thelema. The Chardonnay stands out for its elegance and structure, while the Sauvignon Blanc brings a vibrant freshness and precise minerality to the range.
KapWeine Meets Thelema – A True Stellenbosch Connection
KapWeine and Thelema share a partnership built on quality, trust, and a deep passion for South African wine.
With the 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon named Red Wine of the Year, we’re proudly highlighting a wine that stands for origin and class. At the same time, this collaboration makes truly distinctive wines accessible to a broader audience – authentic, premium, and full of character.
Now exclusively at KapWeine
To celebrate its title as Red Wine of the Year, you can now enjoy the Thelema Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – along with other wines from the estate – at a special price. Discover the range and enjoy exclusive KapWeine pricing!
All prices in CHF incl. VAT. Daily price as of 25.03.2025.
Offers valid while stocks last. Errors and price changes reserved.
