Critics Ratings

2009:
‘Tobacco leaf & black cherry, handsome 2009 has an intriguing baked earth note & mineral finish adding to its attraction, individuality. Built for a distinguished 8+ year future, youthful tannins are accessible but firm, will integrate over time.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2012, 4.5*

2010:
Pure and focused, Bruwer Raats's love of and attention to Cabernet Franc results in a wine that always impresses, and is a bit of an anomaly in the South African wine world. Bright notes of red cherry and currant unfold on the nose and mouth, with accents of ashy tobacco, foliage, pepper and just the faintest suggestion of vanilla bean. Medium weight, with dry, dusty tannins that lend grip to the finish.' - Wine Enthusiast 2014

Aromatic floral hints of violets giving way to classic aromas of furry green leaves, black fruit, liquorice & tobacco on 2010. A mouthful of elegance, as black cherries & blackcurrants take turns with subtly spiced oak. Vanilla/chocolate in lengthy finish. Stellenbosch WO. - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2013, 4.5*

2011:
'Vibrant & delicious 2011 has pronounced aromas of black fruit with classic tomato leaf twist. Ripe black berries & savoury black olive hints with polish & leather, integrated tannins & lengthy finish.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2014, 5*

'Back on form after a slight wobble in 2010, this oak-aged Cabernet Franc is a welcome respite for anyone suffering Cabernet Sauvignon fatigue in Stellenbosch. Savoury, aromatic and balanced, with notes of graphite and green pepper and succulent red fruit sweetness. Drink: 2014-18' - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2014, 93/100

'The 2011 Raats Family Cabernet Franc comes from two parcels of 20+-year-old vines and sees 16 to 18 months in new and used oak. It has a very composed bouquet with dark cherry, raspberry, undergrowth and leather that grows in intensity in the glass. The palate is medium-bodied with a saline entry. The tannins are very fine and frame crisp red and black fruit that segue into a gently fiery finish. This is very well-crafted. Drink now-2018.' - Neal Martin, Vinous, 92/100 (Oct 2013)

2012:
'Exquisitely balanced, elegantly intense 2012 follows seamlessly on from stellar 2011, with signature tomato leaf, liquorice, perfume and dark cooked berries. Supportive acidity freshens and lengthens while assertive yet plushy tannins promise future enjoyment.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2015, 4.5 *

‘The grapes for Bruwer Raats’ top Cabernet Franc are from higher and older blocks in Stellenbosch and it shows in the concentration of the wine. Dried herbs, minerality, fine tannins and refined, grass and graphite notes. The best release under this label since 2009.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2015, 94/100

‘Dense and fleshy, with alluring red and black currant fruit that has melded with smoldering tobacco leaf, loam and bittersweet cocoa notes. Shows ample grip, but remains fine-grained, leaving a supple feel overall.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 91/100 (Jun 2015)

Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client