Glenelly 'Glass Collection' Cabernet Franc 2021

Glenelly 'Glass Collection' Cabernet Franc 2021 is a distinguished red wine from the Stellenbosch region of South Africa, produced by the esteemed Glenelly Estate. Established in 2003 by Madame May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, former owner of Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande in Bordeaux, Glenelly is renowned for crafting wines that harmoniously blend Old World elegance with New World fruit purity.

The 2021 vintage was characterized by a cooler growing season, resulting in slow, even ripening and great natural acidity. The grapes were destemmed and lightly crushed into stainless steel tanks, where fermentation occurred naturally with indigenous yeasts. Optimal extraction was achieved through gentle pump-overs, and post-fermentation skin contact was maintained for an additional 2-3 weeks. The wine was then matured for 12 months in French oak barrels, contributing to its complexity and structure.

Appearance: Deep, rich, ruby-red with a vibrant purple rim. The wine's intensity suggests excellent concentration, while its bright clarity hints at its youthful freshness.

Aroma: Expressive and aromatic, with layers of dark cherries, ripe blueberries, and redcurrants. Subtle floral notes of violet and dried rose petal mingle with an enticing garrigue character of dried thyme, oregano, and Cape Fynbos. Hints of graphite, pencil shavings, and cocoa add depth and complexity.

Taste: Medium to full-bodied, with a finely textured palate that opens with dark cherries, juicy plums, and wild blackberries. Notes of tobacco leaf, crushed herbs, and cedarwood emerge, balanced by bright acidity and refined tannins. A touch of mocha and spice from oak ageing rounds out the palate, adding further dimension and structure.

Finish: Long and elegant, with silky tannins that linger alongside notes of dark fruit, spice, and savoury herbaceous elements. The refined structure and well-integrated acidity provide excellent balance, promising great ageing potential.

Food Pairing: This Cabernet Franc pairs beautifully with grilled lamb chops with rosemary and garlic, where its herbal undertones enhance the dish’s savoury flavours. It also complements venison with berry reduction, allowing the wine’s dark fruit and spice notes to shine. A fantastic match for mushroom risotto or hard cheeses like aged cheddar, highlighting its earthy complexity and refined tannins. Best served slightly below room temperature for optimal expression.