Chamonix Cabernet Franc 2022
| Producer | Chamonix |
|---|---|
| Country | South Africa |
| Region | Franschhoek, Western Cape |
| Wine Type | Red Wine |
| Body / Style | Soft & Supple |
| Grape Blend | 100% Cabernet Franc |
| Bottle Size (ml) | 750 |
| % Abv | 14.5 |
| Vintage | 2022 |
| Extra Info | Elegant, herbal, red-fruited |
| Food Pairing Guide | This elegant, savoury Cabernet Franc goes beautifully with flavourful dishes that aren’t too heavy. It’s excellent with roast lamb, especially lamb rubbed with herbs such as rosemary, thyme or za’atar, and with lamb curry. Its herbal, peppery edge suits game, such as venison, roast pheasant or duck breast with a cherry sauce. It’s also lovely with beef fillet, meatballs in a rich tomato sauce or a classic coq au vin. Vegetarians could try ratatouille, roasted peppers stuffed with herbed grains, or a mushroom and lentil ragù. Goat’s cheese is a classic Loire-style match, and it works well with aged Gouda or Comté too. Serve it slightly cool, at around 16 to 18°C, to show off its freshness. |
Chamonix Cabernet Franc comes from one of Franschhoek’s most respected estates, set high on the dramatic slopes of the Mont Rochelle mountains. Chamonix has become one of South Africa’s leading producers of this elegant variety, and its Cabernet Franc has taken the top trophy at the country’s Cabernet Franc Challenge. The grapes are picked by hand from cool, mountain-facing slopes, where good airflow and gentle sunlight let them ripen slowly. Each berry is carefully selected before a gentle whole-berry fermentation, so the wine shows the finesse that mountain Cabernet Franc can achieve.
In the glass it is a deep ruby red with bright garnet flashes. The nose is aromatic and layered, with redcurrant, raspberry and dark cherry joined by the classic Cabernet Franc notes of dried herbs, spice and a subtle hint of cigar box. The palate is long and well structured, with fine tannins and fresh acidity, and the finish lingers with red fruit, spice and a gentle earthy savouriness. Enjoy it now with lamb, game or herby vegetable dishes, or cellar it for several years to develop further.
