South Africa dominates Cabernet Franc tasting – Blick.ch reports
A Cabernet Franc from South Africa causes a sensation: a wine from Stellenbosch wins first place at the international tasting at the Hotel Schweizerhof in Lucerne. Blick.ch and author Alain Kunz shed light on this impressive success and the strengths of South African wines.
Warwick Estate takes the lead
In the large Cabernet Franc Tasting, in which 46 wines with at least 80% Cabernet Franc were tasted blind, the Warwick Estate from Stellenbosch secured victory. With its refined structure and perfect balance of fruit and flavour, this wine left the international competition in its wake.
Blick.ch wine expert Alain Kunz writes: ‘Cabernet Franc shows just how much class the grape variety can develop, especially in South Africa.’ The tasting, conducted by a high-calibre 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 taut, fine-grained tannins, as befits 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 originating in Bordeaux, finds ideal growing conditions in South Africa. The warm days and cool nights in Stellenbosch favour a harmonious ripening of the grapes, which is reflected in expressive, elegant wines.
As Blick.ch points out, it is not only the climate, but also the innovative winegrowers and the diverse terroir that make South Africa a centre for top wines. Alain Kunz notes that Warwick Estate’s triumph is no coincidence, but 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 also attracted particular attention: the Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc Limited Release impressed the jury with its exceptional value for money. For just CHF 24.90 (from 6 bottles), this wine offers quality that can otherwise be found in much higher price categories.
This insider tip from Stellenbosch shows that South African wines not only deliver top quality, but also offer real discoveries for wine lovers on 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 intense dark carmine red colour of the Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc Limited Release already creates a desire for more. Aromas of dark chocolate, liquorice and hints of the typical fruit notes of plums and ripe mulberries spread across the nose. In the mouth, seductive tannins and a sumptuous and infinitely velvety feel. The finish is reminiscent of nuances of ripe mulberries and soft nut nougat cream.
Result: South Africa as the star of Cabernet Franc
The report on Blick.ch by Alain Kunz makes it clear why South Africa plays a leading role in Cabernet Franc. The victory of Warwick Estate and the honourable mention for Rainbow’s End Cabernet Franc are no coincidence.
South Africa combines outstanding conditions with a wine tradition characterised 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 find out more about the exciting Cabernet Franc tasting, we recommend the article by Alain Kunz 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’, from 15.12.2024
All prices in CHF incl. VAT. Daily price from 16.12.2024.
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