Spier 21 Gables Cabernet Sauvignon 2019

Spier’s 21 Gables range is the pinnacle of their portfolio, named after the beautifully preserved Cape Dutch gables on the historic estate, which dates back to 1692. The wines in this collection are made from carefully selected parcels that best express the variety and terroir. The 21 Gables Cabernet Sauvignon is one of Spier’s most celebrated reds, regularly winning international acclaim for its balance of Stellenbosch power and refinement.

The grapes come from the Helderberg and Stellenbosch wards, areas regarded as some of the finest in the Cape for Cabernet Sauvignon. Vines grow on decomposed granite and sandstone soils, with maritime influences from False Bay ensuring slow ripening, excellent colour development, and balanced tannins. After fermentation, the wine is matured in French oak barrels, a proportion new, for around two years to build structure and complexity, before extended bottle ageing. The 2019 vintage produced wines of concentration and freshness, ideal for long-term ageing.

Appearance: Deep garnet with a dark ruby core, showing concentration and youthful brightness at the rim.

Aroma: Classic Cabernet aromas of blackcurrant, cassis, and mulberry, supported by cedar, tobacco leaf, and graphite. Hints of dark chocolate, mint, and clove emerge with air.

Taste: Full-bodied and structured, with ripe black fruit at the core. Flavours of cassis, blackberry, and plum are layered with savoury notes of pencil shavings, cigar box, and baking spice. Firm tannins are polished, balanced by vibrant acidity.

Finish: Very long, persistent, and elegant, with lingering blackcurrant, cedar, and fine-grained tannin grip.

Food Pairing: Superb with dry-aged ribeye steak, or slow-braised beef short ribs with rosemary and thyme.