Boschendal Black Angus 2020

This interesting and captivating wine is Shiraz-based with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc rounding off the blend. It is an evolution of the original “Estate Blend” that Boschendal launched in the 1980’s under the Grand Reserve label, with the introduction of other Bordeaux varietals now adding greater detail, style and sophistication. The Shiraz vineyard is situated in the Faure region of Stellenbosch, close to the cooling winds of the Atlantic. The remaining varieties are from the Helderberg region, situated on the north-west-facing granite slopes. These carefully selected sites yield some of the finest grapes in the region and are meticulously maintained. The grapes were harvested by hand and carefully sorted upon arrival at the cellar to ensure that only the finest quality is vinified. Natural, hands-on winemaking of the different components, which are vinified separately, ensures optimum levels of inherent varietal expression, extraction and tannin. Barrel maturation takes place in a combination of new (40%) and second- to fourth-fill 300-litre barrels for 14 months before the perfectly harmonious final blend is assembled. The final blend undergoes a further 6-10 months ageing in Foudre to gain additional complexity before being bottled in the luxurious Boschendal Heritage bottle.