Steenberg Catharina 2018

Area: Constantia

Country: South Africa

Varietal: 50% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Malbec, 6% Petit Verdot

ABV:14%

Barrel aging: The wines underwent malolactic conversion in barrels after which they were racked and returned to barrels for 15 months. 83% 1st fill, 17% 2nd fill 225l French oak barrels. After this maturation period the wines were racked out of barrel, blended, then returned to barrel for a  further 9 months, after which it was racked to tank and given a light fining and filtration and bottled end July 2020.

Style: Bold & fruity

Wine maker: Elunda Basson

Buy this wine because this new world Bordeaux blend will delight in its complexity. It displays volumes of basil and cedar, cassis and lavender blossom, cinnamon stick and dark chocolate. Layers of concentrated red and black fruit (raspberry, blackcurrant and black cherry) show on both the nose and the palate, accented with a full, smooth texture from the Cabernet Sauvignon component. Light herbal notes from the Merlot lend a refreshing finish, while the Malbec and Petit Verdot round out the blend, adding structure and depth. Dark fruit and spice, lifting acidity and an encompassing tannic finish

It pairs great with  most red meat (particularly a garlic and rosemary stuffed roast lamb shoulder) or rich saucy dishes