2015 Kanonkop Cabernet (Stellenbosch)

"In a great vintage, Cabernet can stand by itself," according to Abrie Beeslaar, and 2015 is certainly up there with the very best of them. For people who missed out on my 100-point rated 2015 Paul Sauer, this gives you an indication of why the wine is so special. Scented, polished and youthful, with the structure and acidity to age well in bottle. Drink 2021-32. 94 points

The 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon has a perfumed bouquet of black currant, blueberry and touches of cedar/pine cones; the oak is nicely integrated here. The medium-bodied palate features sappy red fruit and an undercurrent of salinity that imparts a subtle marine influence toward the composed finish. Classy. 92 points

Soon to be released in the US, the bold and lush 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon has a dark-fruited core with good complexity and soft oak tones. On the palate, the wine is fresh and ripe, with a core of dense, chewy black fruit that is connected to the oak by way of subtle baking spices. The mid-palate expresses a focus of balanced and structured complexity. It lingers long on the finish, showing a well-built wine that can be cellar-aged for years to come or enjoyed with fine cuts of grilled red meat for dinner tonight. 91 points

A Cape classic & consistent top performer in this guide, 5 stars (one of only 2) in the inaugural edition, 2015 makes it 12 maximum ratings total. Refined & sensual rather than austere & cerebral, with forthcoming textbook cassis aromas/flavours, cedar seasoning, polished tannins from 2 years in 50% new oak. Like 2014 (4.5 stars, 94 pts) & previous, has both immediate appeal & minimum 10 years cellaring potential. 5* & 95 points