Excelsior Wines have been curated for 5 generations of the De Wet Family in South Africa, who have been making wine since 1697! The property is near the Breede River near Robertson in the Western Cape where they planted the region's first vineyards. Excelsior Wines are carefully crafted, and it starts in the vineyard where the grapes are handpicked to ensure quality.
Let's delve into the tasting notes, awards, and overall characteristics of the Excelsior Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Robertson.
Vineyard and Winemaking
Cabernet Sauvignon is the most widely planted grape on the property making up 43% of all plantings. The vines for the Cabernet range from 6-21 years old and are primarily planted on limestone-based soils. Everything was then destemmed, but not crushed, and put in stainless steel for fermentation.
This wine is a shocking bang for its buck! Wonderful displays of black currant and dried herb characters on the nose backed by spicy oak nuances. The palate is smooth and soft with spicy ripe tannins and a long lingering finish.
Tasting Profile
This distinguished red wine showcases a complex flavor profile that unfolds beautifully on the palate. With rich notes of dark berries, hints of vanilla, and a subtle touch of oak, each sip reveals layers of flavor that linger on the taste buds.
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The Excelsior Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Robertson boasts a medium to full-bodied character with a moderate alcohol content that enhances its overall flavor profile. The alcohol content is well-balanced, providing a smooth and subtle drinking experience that appeals to a wide range of preferences.
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Detailed Tasting Notes:
- Nose: Spicy notes of whole coriander and green peppercorn dance atop fruity tones of black plum and berry fruits. Wonderful displays of black currant and dried herb characters backed by spicy oak nuances. A bit simple on the nose, the 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon delivers scents of wild strawberry with hints of black raspberry and subtle green savory tones.
- Palate: The palate offers more astringent and gripping black fruit-skin flavors that carry through to the dry, medium-length finish, alongside hints of char and sweet smoke. The palate is smooth and soft with spicy ripe tannins and a long lingering finish. In the mouth, the wine is medium-bodied, angular and slightly clunky across the mid-palate but has structured tannins. It ends with a simple finish and would do well at a barbecue.
Awards and Recognition
The Excelsior Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Robertson has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its reputation as a high-quality and respected choice in the world of red wines. With accolades from prestigious wine competitions and industry experts, this wine has consistently been recognized for its exceptional taste and craftsmanship.
Notable Awards and Reviews:
- #95 Wine Enthusiast Top 100 Best Buys 2020 - 87 pts
- 86 pts Wine Advocate March 2020
- 3 ½ Stars 2020 Platter’s South African Wine Guide Rich & ripe 18 (85 pts) offers sweet cassis & top note of coffee from 40% oaked component (French & American, 9 months), splash petit verdot.
Food Pairings
To fully appreciate the rich flavors of the Excelsior Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Robertson, it is best enjoyed alongside red meats, hearty stews, or strong cheeses. Whether served at room temperature or slightly chilled, this wine pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, enhancing the dining experience with its versatile and complementary flavors.
Food Accompaniments: Barbecued meats
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Production Process
Crafted with precision and care, the Excelsior Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Robertson undergoes a meticulous production process that highlights the quality of the grapes and the expertise of the winemakers. From fermentation to aging, every step is carefully monitored to ensure the wine reaches its full potential.
Key Aspects of Production:
- Handpicked grapes to ensure quality
- Destemmed, but not crushed
- Fermentation in stainless steel
Here is a summary of the tasting notes and ratings:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Nose | Black currant, dried herb characters, spicy oak, wild strawberry, black raspberry, green savory tones |
| Palate | Smooth, soft, spicy ripe tannins, black fruit-skin flavors, hints of char and sweet smoke, medium-bodied, structured tannins |
| Finish | Long lingering, dry, medium-length, simple finish |
| Wine Enthusiast | 87 pts (#95 Top 100 Best Buys 2020) |
| Wine Advocate | 86 pts (March 2020) |
| Platter’s Guide | 3 ½ Stars (85 pts) |
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