Le Riche Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Super-expressive aromatics of cassis, radiant plums and black cherries, highlighted in brushstrokes of violets, dark roses and an alpine, cedar freshness. The wine paints the room. 2021 marks the 25th anniversary of the winery’s Reserve bottling – and a superlative vintage for cab it was. The mild season ensured slow and extended ripening, concentrating flavours and netting in clean acidities. Le Riche has long collaborated with a network of growers across the wards of Stellenbosch, and builds in complexity from the various characteristics of the parcels with separate, micro-vinification in the cellar. This assemblage comprises Helderberg (67%), Simonsberg (22%) and Jonkershoek Valley (11%). Three years in total elevage, including 24 months in French oak (70% new). The wood soaks in the lush fruit, adding bones of satin to the firm, ageworthy structure, paved with gravelly, brooding tannins all the way to the long, precisely-dry finish. Serious, but with an opulent nature that makes it approachable in its youth.