Anthonij Rupert Cabernet Franc 2017

Anthonij Rupert Cabernet Franc 2017 is a polished, classically styled red that showcases just how refined South African Cabernet Franc can be. Crafted for drinkers who appreciate structure, purity of fruit and a touch of old-world elegance, this wine balances concentration with lifted aromatics and fine-grained tannins. It stands out within the Anthonij Rupert range as a varietal bottling that highlights the grape’s distinctive personality in the Cape’s premium terroirs.

Tasting Notes
In the glass, the 2017 Cabernet Franc shows a deep ruby core with subtle garnet hues toward the rim, hinting at its developing complexity. The nose is expressive and layered, with aromas of black cherry, ripe plum and blackcurrant leaf intertwined with graphite, pencil shavings, dried violets and a gentle touch of cedar and tobacco from oak maturation. On the palate, this is medium to full-bodied, with a poised interplay between ripe dark fruit and the variety’s signature herbal lift. Flavors of blackberry, mulberry and dark cherry are framed by notes of cocoa, baking spice, bay leaf and a subtle savory edge. The tannins are firm yet refined, giving the wine a linear, elegant structure, while fresh acidity keeps everything vibrant and food-friendly. 2017 was an excellent vintage in many Cape regions, and this wine has the depth and backbone to age gracefully for 8–12 years from vintage, gaining more tertiary notes of leather, forest floor and cigar box over time.

Production
The fruit for Anthonij Rupert’s Cabernet Franc typically comes from meticulously managed vineyard blocks in premium South African terroirs, with a strong influence from the cooler slopes that benefit from diurnal temperature swings and maritime breezes. Well-drained soils—often a mix of decomposed granite and sandstone—encourage low yields and naturally concentrated berries. Grapes are picked by hand at optimal phenolic ripeness, with careful bunch and berry selection to ensure only pristine fruit makes it into the cellar. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks to preserve aromatics while extracting color and fine tannins, followed by extended maturation in quality French oak barrels that adds complexity and texture without overwhelming the varietal character.

Food & Serving
This Cabernet Franc is superb with herb-crusted lamb rack, grilled beef sirloin, game birds, and rich stews such as braised short ribs or oxtail. Its herbal and savory nuances also make it a fine match for mushroom dishes, roasted root vegetables, and aged hard cheeses like Comté or mature Cheddar. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) for optimal balance and aromatic expression. Decanting for 45–60 minutes is recommended, especially in its youth, to soften the tannins and allow the wine’s floral, graphite and spice notes to fully unfold.

Producer
Anthonij Rupert Wyne is based on the historic L’Ormarins estate in Franschhoek, one of South Africa’s most storied wine regions. The estate’s viticultural roots trace back to the late 17th century, but the modern wine operation was named in honor of Anthonij Rupert by his brother, Johann Rupert, continuing the family’s commitment to elevating Cape wine on the world stage. Today, Anthonij Rupert sources from carefully chosen vineyard sites across top appellations, crafting focused, site-expressive wines under several premium labels. Known for meticulous vineyard management, state-of-the-art cellar work and a strong emphasis on classic Bordeaux and Rhône varieties, the producer regularly garners high critical acclaim and plays a key role in defining South Africa’s reputation for world-class, age-worthy reds.

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