Glenelly, The Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Glenelly Estate, situated on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, South Africa, was established by May de Lencquesaing, former proprietor of Bordeaux’s Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande. Her ambition was to craft wines that seamlessly blend French sophistication with the distinctive South African terroir. The Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 embodies this vision, presenting a classic and vibrant expression of the varietal.

The 2021 vintage experienced a dry and hot post-harvest period, leading to early leaf fall and delayed cover crop establishment due to late-arriving rains at the end of May. Despite a wet winter, temperatures remained mild, resulting in a bud break 14 days later than usual. Moderate weather during flowering and fruit set contributed to optimal berry and bunch formation. The sustained cooler conditions led to a delayed veraison and ripening period, resulting in a harvest 10 to 14 days later than typical. These conditions fostered slow, even ripening with excellent natural acidity. Grapes were destemmed and lightly crushed into stainless steel tanks. Fermentation commenced naturally, with two daily pump-overs to ensure optimal extraction. Post-fermentation, the wine remained on the skins for 2-3 weeks before gentle pressing. Maturation occurred over 12 months in 300-litre French oak barrels.

Appearance: The wine exhibits a deep, rich ruby-red colour, indicating its concentration and depth. A subtle garnet hue at the rim suggests a touch of evolution while maintaining its youthful vibrancy. The clarity and brilliance in the glass reflect meticulous winemaking, while slow-moving legs indicate a balanced structure with refined texture.

Aroma: The nose presents intense dark fruit aromas, including blackcurrant and black cherries, complemented by subtle hints of chocolate and spicy undertones. As the wine opens, delicate notes of spearmint and cedar emerge, adding complexity and intrigue. A faint mineral undertone and a whisper of pencil shavings enhance the wine’s refined profile.

Taste: On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and well-structured, showcasing generous fruit flavours of dark berries and plums. The richness is balanced by fine, well-integrated tannins that provide structure without overpowering the fruit. Subtle nuances of chocolate and spice enhance the depth and complexity, leading to a harmonious and satisfying mouthfeel. A touch of cassis and tobacco lingers mid-palate, adding further depth and character.

Finish: The finish is long and smooth, with the dark fruit flavours gradually giving way to lingering notes of chocolate, cedarwood, and a touch of spice. A hint of graphite minerality and polished tannins create a refined, velvety mouthfeel that persists elegantly. The fresh acidity ensures a structured, lingering aftertaste, leaving an impression of sophistication and balance. A final whisper of roasted coffee and dark cherry rounds out the wine’s graceful conclusion.

Food Pairing: This Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. It complements red meats such as beef or lamb, where the wine’s structure and depth enhance the richness of the meat. Slow-roasted venison with a blackcurrant reduction accentuates the wine’s dark fruit intensity. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with roasted vegetable dishes, wild mushroom ragout, or hearty lentil stews, which harmonise with the wine’s fruity and spicy notes. Aged cheeses such as Gouda or Comté add another layer of indulgence to the experience.

The Glenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 exemplifies the estate’s dedication to producing wines that reflect both their French heritage and South African roots, offering a distinctive and memorable tasting experience.