Our tasting panel recently awarded a rare four stars to a medium-priced South African Cabernet Sauvignon, said Eric Asimov in The New York Times. South Africa “is not exactly the first country that comes to mind” when thinking about quality wine. Yet I can declare that it is now “unequivocally” one of the best sources on the planet for moderately priced Cabernet Sauvignon. Though a few wines in our tasting were “fruit bombs,” most were more like those from Bordeaux than California—balanced, well structured, and filled with flavors of cassis and violets.
De Trafford Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 ($32)
The four-star winner. “Rich, yet graceful and structured.” The price makes it “a great deal.”
Rust en Vrede Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 ($27) “Beautiful aroma of flowers.”
One Stroke One Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 ($28) Light-bodied, intense blackberry aromas.
Bon Cap Robertson Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 ($15)
“Best Value.” Balanced, earthy, and well structured.
