South Africa’s Cabernet Franc shows its class – VINUM Report

South Africa’s Cabernet Franc: finesse, depth, and a new elegance

The latest VINUM Market Report makes it clear: Cabernet Franc is experiencing a renaissance – and South Africa is taking center stage. Once known mainly as a blending grape, it has evolved at the Cape into a noble, distinctive variety full of character.

From Supporting Role to Solo Star

Often referred to as the “younger brother” of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc proves its true class in South Africa. In the elevated slopes and hillsides of Stellenbosch, wines with pure fruit, elegant spice, and fine tannins are being crafted. What makes South African Cabernet Francs so special is their balance between structure and freshness. They show depth, yet remain lively and approachable – true ambassadors of a new style at the Cape.

“Full of character and nobility – a grape variety with great potential for top-quality wines.”
— Sigi Hiss, VINUM Editor

Two South African wines ranked among the top five. These wines embody everything that defines Cabernet Franc today: elegance, subtle spice, and refined power. They are among South Africa’s most exciting red wines – and set a clear signal for the future of this variety:

• Van Loggerenberg Breton Cabernet Franc 2020 – Stellenbosch – 94 points
  Needs air and time. Initially a hint of plaster, then steely and chalky with fresh black pepper and cherry pit. Opens gently in the glass. Wonderfully juicy, very clear, and vibrant on the palate with great acidity and tightly woven tannins. A light-bodied CF that lacks nothing and smiles at excessive power. Fresh garden herbs, a touch of juniper, and a crisp, mineral finish.

• Uva Mira The Dance Cabernet Franc 2021 – Stellenbosch – 94 points
  Juicy dark forest raspberry alongside herbal juniper, thyme notes, and damp forest floor. Distinctive yet harmonious, with hints of liquorice and cedarwood. Wonderfully juicy with flow and fine, already slightly polished tannins. Walnut and black cherry join the aromas from the nose. Overall a balanced, powerful yet always drinkable style thanks to its bright acidity. Truly captivating!

• Hogan Mirror for the Sun Cabernet Franc 2023 – Stellenbosch – 94 points
  Very subtle and aromatically restrained. Racy and linear, needs time and air. Slightly reductive and tightly wound. Fresh acidity paired with fine, wiry tannins and a firm structure – yet perfectly balanced. Pure and even slightly mineral. Dense but never concentrated or opulent. As young and closed as it may be, its great potential clearly shines through – hence the high score.

• Glenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Franc 2017 – Stellenbosch – 94 points
  Eucalyptus and fresh green mint on the nose, with ethereal notes, pinecones, and fir needles. Racy, precise, and refreshing. Mirrors the nose on the palate – complex, linear, and very pure. Shows character and noble style without being a fruit bomb. Gentle tannins, a touch of underripe raspberry, and an invigorating flow. Long and elegant – proof that CF can be both refined and vibrant.

From Soil to Glass – South Africa’s Cabernet Franc Shows Its Character

The interplay of sunny days, cool nights, and the influence of the Atlantic Ocean creates ideal conditions for Cabernet Franc. In Stellenbosch, limestone and shale soils give rise to wines that combine structure, depth, and freshness.

Winemakers focus on balance rather than over-ripeness: delicate herbal notes, ripe berry fruit, and subtle oak – a style that continues to gain international recognition.

Cabernet Franc – Elegance Meets Character

The latest Vinum Report 2025 makes it clear: South Africa’s Cabernet Franc has become a true insider tip for connoisseurs. With its delicate herbal spice, elegant structure, and vibrant freshness, it’s winning international acclaim – especially from regions like Stellenbosch and Elgin.

And what pairs better with this characterful grape variety than an autumn dish full of depth and finesse?
Discover our recipe for venison loin with red wine jus, cranberry shallots, and celery purée – a feast for all the senses and the perfect match for a glass of South African Cabernet Franc.

Preparation

Prepare the venison:
Season the meat with salt and pepper. Sear it all around in a hot pan with olive oil. Add herbs, garlic, and butter, then continue cooking over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes, basting regularly with the melted butter. Let the meat rest in the oven at 120 °C for about 10 minutes.

Red wine jus:
Deglaze the pan with red wine, bring to a boil, and reduce by half. Add the game stock and cranberries, then simmer for another 10 minutes. Whisk in the cold butter and season with salt and pepper.

Celery purée:
Peel the celery and potato, cut into pieces, and cook in milk until soft. Drain, add butter, and purée until smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.

Cranberry shallots:
Halve the shallots and sauté them in butter until translucent. Add sugar and allow to caramelize lightly, then stir in the cranberries and balsamic vinegar. Reduce briefly until a glossy sweet-sour sauce forms.

To serve:
Place the celery purée on the plate, slice the venison, and arrange it on top. Drizzle with the red wine jus and serve the cranberry shallots on the side.

Wine Recommendation

Enjoy this hearty dish with a Syrah/Shiraz from Stellenbosch or Swartland. Its dark fruit aromas, spicy notes, and fine structure pair beautifully with the game and the sweet-tart cranberry sauce.