Raats Family Wines Stella Nova Cabernet Franc 2018
100% Cabernet Franc
This wine is an expression of Bruwer Raats’ lifelong passion for, sustained focus on and commitment to master Cabernet Franc.
This single barrel was selected exclusively for the CWG Auction from sustainably farmed vines dominated by fruit from a block high on the granite slopes of Vlaeberg Mountain in Polkadraai Hills Stellenbosch. The block overlooks both Table Bay on the north side and False Bay on the south side of the mountain, allowing for cool air to circulate the vines continuously. Hand-harvested with vinification in small batches using optimally ripe grapes, we select the best barrel from the vintage to represent what we consider our finest expression of this variety. The grapes are hand-sorted three times, crushed and left to cold soak on the skins for five days, before we basket press the grapes and allow the wine to undergo malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks and then aged for 18 months in 225 litre French oak barrels.
Tasting Notes: A superbly refined Cabernet Franc, the wine has a very engaging nose which entices with its perfume of rosemary, spicy notes of nutmeg, cloves, star anise and an intense brooding blackberry fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and a harmonious finish. There is a beguiling purity to this wine and it will age supremely well.
Drink 2024 until 2030 and beyond.
Winemaker: Bruwer Raats
Price raised per case
- 6 x 750ml or equivalent
- Highest: R9 000
- Lowest: R6 000
- Average: R7 385
Packaging
- Bottle Size 750ml
- Case Size: 6 x 750ml
- Cases Produced: 48
- Cases Auctioned: 26
Analysis
- Alc: 14.5 vol%
- RS: 2.8 g/l
- TA: 6.0 g/l
- pH: 3.44
