Top 3 South African Reds Tasted
2003 Morgenster Stellenbosch 13.5%
2001 Morgenster Stellenbosch 14.5%
At first super spicy on the nose, with hints of mesquite barbecue sauce and dried tarragon accenting the gentle black fruits that are backed up with a nice hint of oak, some olive brine tones, and hints of licorice and mineral earth. Nice and fresh in the mouth, with bright acidity and some nice round tannins. This remains youthfully structured and while there are nice evolved overtones, the fruit is still bright and clear. Lots of tobacco emerges on the palate, with an earthy and sweet licorice layer on the long, elegant finish. The tannins turn a bit more angular with air, and drying on the increasingly spicy finish. A very nicely styled old world-inspired wine. 92pts. Find out more.
2008 Raats Stellenbosch Cabernet Franc 14%
—Gregory Dal Piaz, Snooth
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