Cabernet Sauvignon Wine

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Enthusiast by Matt Kettmann writes 90 Points | Savory, slightly reductive aromas of damp soil, charcoal and tar meet with dark berry on the nose of this bottling, which steadily opens up with air. The palate's asphalt minerality gives way to dried plum, dark spice and espresso bean, making for a familiar experience. 

Winemaker Description 

Joel Gott Blend No. 815 Cabernet Sauvignon has aromas of raspberries, blackberries, plum, and mocha with notes of cinnamon and cedar. The wine opens with red fruit flavors, followed by velvety tannins on the mid palate and notes of black pepper on the long, textured finish.

Explore the Rich Flavors of Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Description

With attractive aromas of black fruit and spice, this smooth, ready-to-drink Cabernet Sauvignon is made with the same care as the highest-quality, traditionally crafted Bordeaux-style wines. Justin Cabernet Sauvignon spends 14 months in traditional small oak barrels to impart depth and complexity. The unique climate and soils of Paso Robles add a classic Cabernet character to this wine, highlighting an exceptional balance of flavors and textures.

Bright, moderate concentration, and consistent ruby red hues to the rim. Aromatic with juicy red fruit on the nose, this wine shows red raspberry and black cherry laced with a bouquet of vanilla, soft herbs, and warming spices. On entry, this wine is dry, moderately full-bodied, supple, and bursting with bright red plum and ripe cherry. The velvety tannins are well-integrated among more nuanced elements of caramel, toasted coconut, fennel, and sage. The long finish turns pleasantly savory with floral notes and a hint of pepper. 

The 2022 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon is remarkably balanced and complex, with a fresh palate that not only invites another sip on its own, but also pairs well with a wide variety of dishes. Try this wine with grilled chicken or burgers at your next cookout or with a classic filet mignon at your favorite steakhouse.

Memo Summary Notes

The Justin Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 is a classic expression of Paso Robles, California—a region known for producing Cabs that are lusher and more fruit-forward than their cousins in Napa. It is widely considered a "luxury" benchmark for under $30, offering a smooth, approachable style that mimics traditional Bordeaux techniques.

Paso Robles experiences very hot days and cool nights, which creates high sugar levels in the grapes. This results in a wine that feels "bigger" and softer than a mountain Cab. While wine enthusiasts sometimes debate its "mass-market" consistency, it is consistently one of the highest-rated California Cabs by consumers for its "smoothness" and lack of harsh tannins.

This wine’s bold fruit and vanilla-oak profile make it an excellent match for charred or fatty foods:

• Classic pairing: Filet mignon with a blue cheese crust or a ribeye steak.

• Casual pairing: A deluxe wagyu burger with caramelized onions.

• Cheese: Hard sheep's milk cheeses (like Manchego) or aged Cheddar.

Introducing Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from Paso Robles in 2022 is a remarkable wine known for its depth and complexity. Its rich flavors come from high-quality grapes, carefully nurtured throughout the growing season. The wine showcases dark fruit notes complemented by hints of oak and spices, creating a balanced profile that appeals to both novice and seasoned wine drinkers. Because of its elegant finish, it pairs exceptionally well with various dishes, whether you're enjoying a hearty steak dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

Bottling and Aging Process

This Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Justin Vineyard employs a combination of traditional and modern winemaking techniques to preserve the essence of the grapes. After fermentation, the wine ages in oak barrels, enhancing its flavor profile with subtle vanilla and toast notes. This aging process allows the wine to develop a robust structure and rich mouthfeel, bringing forth a sensory experience that’s both luxurious and accessible.

Food Pairings and Enjoyment

Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon is versatile in its food pairings. It shines with grilled meats, rich pasta dishes, and aged cheeses. The tannins in the wine mellow with food, making each sip more enjoyable. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet evening, this wine elevates the experience. So, pour a glass, savor the aromas, and let the flavors unfold, because every sip tells a story of passion and craftsmanship from Justin Vineyard.

67Wine.com Review

Surprise, Surprise!  This is as tasty as any Cabernet you can buy for $15, that’s for sure!  We had it with roast chicken, smashed potatoes,  buttered string beans and it just worked.  This is a medium-bodied Cab; its dark plum and cherry fruit flavors are upfront, mouth-filling and leave a mouth cleansing fruit aftertaste.  Another of our buyer Oscar’s really great deals.  - Dorothy & Bernie Follow the Drinker®
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67Wine Petit Somm Series® showcases original artwork inspired by our city. Our Cabernet Sauvignon has ruby red color with bright red highlights. Plum and raspberry on the nose with a hint of cacao. Pleasant and lively on the palate, medium-bodied with nice soft tannins. This wine can be a great companion for grilled steak.
-Oscar Garcia, Wine Buyer, 67 Wine

Produced by the historic Santa Cristina Winery estate of the renowned Antinori family, this Cabernet Sauvignon highlights the richness and approachability of fruit grown in the warm vineyards of Tuscany. The Santa Cristina estate, established in 1946 near Cortona, has long been known for crafting wines that combine Tuscan character with international grape varieties.

The 2023 vintage opens with expressive aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, complemented by notes of violet, sweet spice, and a touch of cocoa. On the palate, the wine is smooth, medium-to-full bodied, and well balanced, with soft tannins supporting flavors of black fruit, subtle herbs, and gentle oak spice. The finish is round and approachable, making it enjoyable both on its own and at the table.

Versatile and food-friendly, Santa Cristina Cabernet Sauvignon pairs beautifully with grilled meats, pasta with rich sauces, roasted vegetables, or aged cheeses, offering a polished yet easy-drinking expression of Cabernet from Tuscany.

Experience the Exquisite Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Description

Notes of blackberry, toasted hazelnut, and cinnamon, complemented by hints of vanilla and toasted oak.
Pairs well with well-seasoned beef, pork, lamb, or your favorite chocolate desserts.

Memo Summary Notes

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon California 2023 is a quintessential "Modern California" red—designed to be approachable, fruit-forward, and smooth. It remains the flagship wine of the brand, created by Joseph Carr as a tribute to his father.

Because of its balanced acidity and smooth tannins, this wine is versatile:

    •    Meats: Well-seasoned beef, grilled pork chops, or lamb.
    •    Pasta: Hearty red sauces (Bolognese or marinara).
    •    Cheese: Hard cheeses like aged Cheddar or Gouda.
    •    Dessert: Dark chocolate or flourless chocolate cake.
 Bold Flavors.

Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon is a remarkable wine that showcases the true essence of California vineyards. With every sip, you are greeted with bold flavors of dark fruits like blackberry and plum. The subtle notes of vanilla and toasted oak add a refined character to this Cabernet Sauvignon, making it a delightful experience. This wine is perfect for special occasions or simply to enjoy after a long day because it beautifully complements a variety of dishes.

Perfect Pairings for Every Occasion

This Cabernet Sauvignon is not just a pleasure on its own; it pairs wonderfully with a wide range of foods. Whether you are serving a hearty steak, rich pasta dishes, or even a selection of aged cheeses, Josh Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon enhances the flavors of your meal. Its balanced acidity and smooth finish make it a versatile choice for any dinner party or casual gathering. So, you can trust that this wine will impress your guests and elevate your dining experience.

A Testament to Winemaking Excellence

Josh Cellars is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship in every bottle they produce. The 2023 vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon is no exception, as it reflects the careful selection of grapes and the meticulous winemaking process. With its beautiful deep color and aromatic bouquet, this wine is truly a testament to the excellence of California winemaking. Because of this dedication, wine lovers everywhere regard Josh Cellars as a trusted choice in premium wines.
 

Discover the Richness of J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2022

The Tasting Panel 92 Points | Streamlined, with velvety tannins, this balanced red surpasses expectations for its price point. Creamy notes of black cherry, vanilla, and purple plum bathe the mouth, giving way to a delectable finish of spiced LOHR black currant.

James Suckling 90 Points | Currants, sage, roasted plums and cloves on the nose of this rich and spicy red. It’s full-bodied, plush and toasty, with ripe tannins.

The Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | Damp earth aromas lead quickly into sharp yet ripe cherry aromas on the nose of this bottling. Likable flavors of black cherry greet the palate, as wet clay, cocoa, mint and mace flavors add impressive complexity at this price point.

Winemaker Description

Ripe fruit aromas of black cherry and currant are accented by notes of toasted pastry, hazelnut, and vanilla from J. Lohr's authentic barrel aging program. Big, juicy red-fruit flavors infuse the palate while softly textured tannins lead to a long, gratifying finish.

Unveiling the Flavors of J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon

J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon is a delightful choice for wine lovers, especially the 2022 vintage. This wine offers a rich blend of luscious dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, complemented by hints of spice and toasted oak. The balanced acidity and well-structured tannins provide a smooth mouthfeel, making it an ideal companion for grilled meats or hearty pasta dishes. Because of its smooth finish, this wine is great for both casual gatherings and formal dinners.

Complementing Your Meals

The versatility of J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon makes it an excellent pairing with a variety of foods. It pairs beautifully with juicy steaks, lamb dishes, and even savory vegetarian options like mushroom risotto. The wine’s robust flavors enhance the taste of your meals, creating a harmonious dining experience. Therefore, it’s no surprise that many chefs and wine enthusiasts recommend this wine for special occasions or everyday enjoyment.

A Legacy of Quality

J. Lohr has a longstanding reputation for producing high-quality wines, and the Cabernet Sauvignon Seven Oaks is no exception. Since its founding, the vineyard has focused on sustainable practices to ensure the purity of their wines. This dedication, along with the ideal growing conditions of Paso Robles, contributes to the distinctive character and exceptional quality of J. Lohr Cabernet Sauvignon. For those who appreciate good wine, this is a bottle that delivers an outstanding experience time and again.

Winemaker Description

The deep ruby color indicates a luxe complexity, while aromas of black cherry, cassis and rich earth are abundant in this classic Cabernet Sauvignon. On entry, currants and black plums generously lead to a plush mouthfeel. There are ample tannins carrying the fruit to the long lingering finish. Aging for 12 months in 1-year-old American oak barrels created notes of baking spices, nutmeg and hints of caramel.

This versatile wine pairs well with a variety of foods like rib-eye steak with blue cheese butter, roasted eggplant with provolone cheese and dark chocolate mousse with fresh berries.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

Wine Enthusiast 90 Points | For $11, this California Cab packs bags of flavor. Find notes of black cherry, plum and currant, cinnamon, nutmeg, fennel, crushed violets and toasted wood alongside mouthcoating tannins and modest acidity. 

Winemaker Description

The Beringer Founders’ Estate Cabernet boasts flavors of black cherry, raspberry, vanilla and cinnamon spice. It has a round mouthfeel, supple tannins and a long, lingering finish. A food-friendly wine, it pairs beautifully with a grilled rib-eye steak, roasted vegetables, or aged cheddar.

Our Professional Review

Bart Hopkins of 67Wine.com writes | Blended with a small amount of Zinfandel, Merlot, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, Oberon Napa Cabernet Sauvignon is darkly colored with aromas and flavors of lush blackberries, black cherries, mocha, dark chocolate and baking spices. Silky sweet tannins lead to a long and delicious finish.

Winemaker Description 

To create this Cabernet Sauvignon, Oberon sourced grapes from throughout Napa's finest winegrowing regions, including Oakville, Oak Knoll, Yountville, Suscol Ridge, Chiles Valley, Pope Valley and Capell Valley.

By layering fruit from Napa's sparse volcanic soils and the deeper alluvial soils of the valley floor, Oberon accomplished their goal of marrying many different expressions into one outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon that boasts a beautifully seamless mouthfeel and rich, complex texture and flavors.

Memo Summary Notes

The Oberon Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is a classic Napa Valley staple from the Michael Mondavi family. Winemaker Tony Coltrin sources fruit from premium Napa sub-regions—including Oakville, Oak Knoll, and Yountville—to create a "seamless" style that balances the structure of volcanic soils with the lush fruit of the valley floor.

The 2023 vintage in Napa was characterized by an exceptionally long, cool growing season, which resulted in highly concentrated fruit and a more "elegant" balance than the hotter preceding years.

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction. 

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction. 

Grilled Meats: A classic partner for ribeye steak, lamb chops, or duck breast with a berry reduction.

Expert Ratings - Vintage 2020

James Sucking 94 Points: A discrete and savory nose of blackcurrants, tobacco leaves, coffee beans and dried herbs. The palate is full-bodied with silky tannins, bright acidity and notes of dark cherries, olives and beets. A blend of 83% cabernet sauvignon, 10% merlot, 6% petit verdot and 1% malbec. A well-balanced wine that will age gracefully. Drink or hold.

Wine Enthusiast 92 points: The expressive nose of this wine gives aromas of black currant, plum and tobacco, with just a whisper of capsicum. The palate displays vibrant cranberry, black cherry, cigar and black pepper flavors in a medium-bodied frame.

Winemaker Notes:

Winemaker Description

Lovely dark fruit aromas waft from the glass with notes of spice and eucalyptus. Blackberry, raspberry and boysenberry flavors are accentuated by hints of vanilla, espresso and baker’s chocolate. The finish is round and supple. 

Memo Summary Notes

The 2024 DeLoach Heritage Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon is an approachable, fruit-forward red wine from California’s Central Valley and Lodi regions. It is well-regarded as a high-value, sustainable "daily drinker.

Winemaker Description

This tried-and-true Cabernet has been a dinner table staple for more than 40 years. A rich ruby hue fills the glass along with aromas of fresh vanilla, lush red fruit and herbaceous nuances. On the palate, bright cherry notes mingle with warm cocoa and sweet oak. The finish is unbelievably smooth with soft, gorgeous tannins. 

Memo Summary Notes

That is a great choice! The Liberty School Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023 is an extremely popular and dependable wine from the Hope Family Wines portfolio, known for being an excellent value.

This is a very versatile wine that pairs well with classic American comfort foods:

• Grilled Steaks and Burgers

• Red Sauce Pasta Dishes

• Lamb

• Hard Cheeses

Winemaker Description

This medium-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon has vibrant notes of blackberry fruit, hints of vanilla and oak, and a lingering finish.

Winemaker Description

The McManis Family Vineyards Cabernet is dark garnet in color with juicy flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and black cherry. Most of the fruit for the Cabernet Sauvignon comes from the Lodi AVA, with the remainder coming from sustainable vineyards within the Valley. They generally harvest the Cabernet in late September. After 7-9 days of fermentation on the skins, the resulting wine is pressed and finishes fermentation in stainless steel tanks. The wine is then aged on new and used French and American oak for 4-6 months.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2024 McManis Family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon is a medium-bodied red wine known for its smooth, fruit-forward profile and exceptional value. Primarily sourced from the Lodi AVA, this vintage continues the winery's tradition of producing "California-style" Cabs that are approachable and well-structured.

Winemaker Description

Bonanza calls back to a simpler time – Chuck Wagner recalls fondly how his family enjoyed his dad’s homemade wine with their nightly dinner. His vision is that delicious Cabernet should be accessible to a broad group of people. Chuck wants everyone to have the chance to enjoy good wine as a simple pleasure of everyday life.

Tasting Notes:

Bonanza Wine Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 9 is a bold and delicious red wine that embodies the spirit of the Wild West. With its deep ruby color and rich aromas, this wine is a true testament to the adventurous spirit of the American frontier. It reflects the “bonanza” of the great state of California – and bonanza calls back to the discovery of land where delicious Cabernet can be farmed. Medium ruby-red, this wine opens with scents of currants and dried roses, grape pomace, and fresh tilled soil.

The nose is filled with ripe blackberry and black currant, along with hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and rich, with a velvety texture and silky tannins that make it easy to drink.

Daou Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles 2023

Wine Enthusiast 91 Points - "Clean lines of cherry, toasted wood, red flower and a pinch of thyme make for a satisfying nose on this widely available bottling. The palate pairs familiar blackberry flavors with mocha spice."

Winemaker's Tasting Notes

A powerful, complex and layered wine with heady aromas of black plum, Zante currant, frankincense and sage. Trailing scents of blackberry, cardamom and espresso bean reveal accents of vanilla, saddle leather and cinnamon toast. Fine-grained tannins provide structure for rich flavors of black cherry, raspberry and mulberry, with secondary layers of black olive, sandalwood and dark chocolate. Velvety texture with lingering impressions of chocolate-covered cherry, dried herbs and toasty oak.

Perfect Pairings

Grilled steaks, rich pasta dishes, aged cheddar cheese, and hearty roasts. Serve at 60-65°F for optimal flavor.

Wine Details

Producer: Daou Vineyards | Region: Paso Robles, California | Vintage: 2023 | Volume: 750ml

Winemaker Description

Intense, bright red and balanced. Ideal for festive occasions, an easy-drinking wine. Full bodied and rich with cassis, blueberry and blackberry anchored by oak influenced vanilla and a cedary accent. Fine tannins provide texture on the finish.

Château L'Escart is located with its 26ha of vineyards east of Bordeaux near Saint Loubès. The vineyards are planted with the traditional Bordeaux grape varieties: Merlot (50%) Cabernet Sauvignon (25%) and Cabernet Franc (15%) Malbec (7%) and Petit Verdot (3%). 

Memo Summary Notes

Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot

Pair with

• Meats: Grilled entrecôte with herbed butter, lamb kebabs, or beef tartare.

• Vegetarian: Grilled maitake mushrooms or a hearty lentil and kale stew.

• Casual: This is one of the few Bordeaux that is versatile enough for a high-end Pizza Night

Winemaker Description 

Deep rich ruby. Aromas of blackberry cobbler, ripe and dark mixed berries, graham cracker, brown sugar, vanilla, milk chocolate, toasty oak, with notes of coffee and smoke. On the palate, ripe blackberry cobbler, blueberry pie, pralines, sweet vanilla custard, brown sugar, caramel, mocha with hints of coffee. Ripe, dense and soft chewy tannins with toasty oak round the wine out with a lush, long, and lingering finish.

A superb accompaniment to bourbon glazed ribs, charcuterie board, hearty pasta dishes, and strong cheeses. 

Winemaker Description 

This Cabernet Sauvignon displays ripe blackcurrant, and dried herb characters on the nose, which are backed up with some spicy oak notes. The palate is smooth and soft, with beautiful ripe tannins and a long finish.

Producer Description 

Wild blackberry and brambly forest fruits are underscored by aromas of roasted bell pepper and bold toasty oak. On the palate, the 2023 vintage is bright and structured, offering flavors of just-ripe blackberries, savory dried herbs, and a hint of smoked paprika. Firm age-worthy tannins provide grip and depth, giving this wine a powerful yet balanced finish.

Memo Pairing Suggestions

Because of its weight and oak influence, this wine pairs best with hearty, savory dishes:    •    Smoked Brisket or Grilled Ribeye 
Game meats like venison or lamb
Hard cheeses such as aged Cheddar or Gouda
Rich BBQ (Burgers with caramelized onions)


      
 

Winemaker Description 

Medium-to-full bodied combining dark berry fruit and cassis flavors with hints of chocolate and mint.

Winemaker Description

A perfect pairing for food with balanced acidity and flavors of cranberry, currant, and vanilla.

Diamond Collection Cabernet Sauvignon’s complexity is crafted by blending fruit from contrasting soil compositions and climates. The beauty of this wine is that it offers a great deal of dimension while still maintaining supple tannins for immediate drinkability.

Experience the Elegance of Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker Description

Bright with a deep ruby core that lightens at the rim of the glass, with moderately thick, slow forming tears. Aromatic with ripe black cherry, red berries and blackcurrant fruit with spice notes of vanilla and cinnamon with fresh sage, subtle dried rose petal, and toasted oak.

Nearly full-bodied with red plum, ripe bing cherry, and blackberry on entry with savory dried herbs, baking spice and toasted oak on the midpalate supported with balanced, fine tannins. The complex finish shows sustained ripe fruit and spice mixed with dried flower and camphor elements.

Memo Summary Notes

The 2021 Justin Cabernet Sauvignon is a widely popular, "crowd-pleaser" style wine from Paso Robles, California. Known for its accessibility and bold fruit profile, this vintage continues the winery's tradition of producing a smooth, oak-forward Cabernet that drinks well immediately upon release.

Because of its bold fruit and moderate acidity, this wine is built for hearty, savory dishes:

• The Classics: Grilled ribeye, filet mignon, or a high-quality burger with blue cheese.

• Savory/Herbal: Roasted lamb with rosemary or a portobello mushroom "steak" with balsamic glaze.

• Cheese: Hard, aged cheeses like Cheddar, Gouda, or Beemster.

Rich Flavor Profile

Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 is a full-bodied red wine that captivates the senses. Its rich flavors are a result of careful blending of high-quality grapes, resulting in notes of dark fruit, chocolate, and subtle oak. The wine's complexity makes it a perfect match for grilled meats or a rich chocolate dessert, enabling it to enhance your dining experience. This is why many wine enthusiasts prefer Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon for their special occasions.

Elegant Presentation

This 375ml half bottle is ideal for those who want to enjoy high-quality wine without opening a full-sized bottle. It offers the same premium taste and aroma characteristics as the standard size but in a more manageable portion. This convenience makes it perfect for picnics, small gatherings, or as an introduction to fine wines. Therefore, it’s an excellent choice for casual wine drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.

Perfect for Gifting

Moreover, the Justin Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon comes beautifully packaged, making it an exceptional gift for wine lovers. The elegant design of the half bottle coupled with its award-winning flavor makes it a thoughtful present for birthdays, anniversaries, or holiday celebrations. Because of its broad appeal, it’s a gift that can be appreciated by anyone, regardless of their wine expertise.

Winemaker Description

This is a quintessential Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with pronounced aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla that welcome you into the glass. Flavors of black plums, nutmeg, dark chocolate, and a touch of espresso enhance the wine's complex and full-bodied structure, with a core of elegant acidity from start to finish.
 

Winemaker Description

Dark ruby-red color. Very intense aroma, full of red fruit aromas such as berries, cherries and cassis, that meld perfectly with vanilla and chocolate notes. A fresh sensation with medium. 

Winemaker Description

Caymus has a signature style that is dark in color, with rich fruit and ripe tannins – as approachable in youth as in maturity. Since its founding in 1972, Caymus has become renowned as a consistent leader in the production of Napa Valley Cabernet. Grapes for this wine are farmed in a range of Napa’s sub-appellations – from Coombsville to Calistoga – with fruit from the valley floor creating lushness and the hillsides providing backbone. Diversification enables us to make the best possible wine in a given year, featuring layered, lush aromas and flavors, including cocoa, cassis and ripe berries.

Expert Reviews 

Winemaker Description 

A full-bodied wine with hints of minty characters, cigar box and lots of dark fruits. Bold palate with chewy tannins. 

Winemaker Ntsiki Biyela grew up in Mahlabathini, a rural village in Kwazulu Natal, and matriculated from high school in 1996. Having spent a year as a domestic worker, she was awarded a scholarship to study winemaking in 1999. She graduated in 2003 with a BSc in Agriculture (Viticulture and Oenology) at Stellenbosch University and joined boutique winery Stellekaya Wines the following year.

Ntsiki’s ambition to create her own wines grew following a collaboration with Californian winemaker, Helen Kiplinger, as part of Mika Bulmash’s Wine for the World initiative. In addition, she has consulted in France, making wine under Winemakers Collection in Bordeaux.

Finally, she sits on the board of directors for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, which provides technical training and personal development for young South Africans in the Cape Winelands, preparing them for work in the wine industry. The programme offers them the unique opportunity to emulate her own considerable success.

Ntsiki grew up in Mahlabathini, a rural village in Kwazulu Natal, and matriculated from high school in 1996. Having spent a year as a domestic worker, she was awarded a scholarship to study winemaking in 1999. She graduated in 2003 with a BSc in Agriculture (Viticulture and Oenology) at Stellenbosch University and joined boutique winery Stellekaya Wines the following year.

Ntsiki’s ambition to create her own wines grew following a collaboration with Californian winemaker, Helen Kiplinger, as part of Mika Bulmash’s Wine for the World initiative. In addition, she has consulted in France, making wine under Winemakers Collection in Bordeaux.

Finally, she sits on the board of directors for the Pinotage Youth Development Academy, which provides technical training and personal development for young South Africans in the Cape Winelands, preparing them for work in the wine industry. The programme offers them the unique opportunity to emulate her own considerable success.

Winemaker Description

A big, bold Cabernet Sauvignon. It explodes with black cherry, wild berry fruit and notes of chocolate and oak. The rich texture of this wine lingers long with a bright, fresh finish.

Explore the Distinctive Flavors of Chateau Senejac

Winemaker Description

A heady seductive nose, rich ripe full fruits on the nose with a gentle and inviting pot pourri nose. Lovely freshness here and seering, mouthwatering cherry juice flavours – acidity is marked but in a really well balanced harmonious way. Just great energy and brightness. No massie complexity but what is delivered is excellent quality fruit that has been well handled. One for earlier drinking to enjoy the pretty, balanced and bright wine. Bordeaux at its most approachable. Drinking Window 2023 – 2033.

Expert Reviews - Vintage 2020

Understanding Chateau Senejac

Chateau Senejac is a remarkable estate located in the prestigious Haut-Medoc region of France. This 2020 vintage offers an exceptional blend of flavors, showcasing the terroir's rich characteristics. The wine is known for its elegant structure, vibrant acidity, and well-integrated tannins, making it a favorite among wine lovers. Because Chateau Senejac emphasizes quality over quantity, every bottle reflects the meticulous care taken during the winemaking process.

The Taste Profile

The 2020 Chateau Senejac presents a delightful array of aromas and flavors. You can expect notes of ripe blackberries, plums, and a subtle hint of vanilla. These characteristics are enhanced by the wine's smooth texture and lingering finish. This balance of fruitiness and complexity makes it an ideal pairing for various dishes, including grilled meats and savory cheeses. So, whether you're enjoying a casual dinner or a special occasion, this red wine is sure to impress.

Food Pairing Recommendations

When you pour a glass of Chateau Senejac Haut-Medoc 2020, consider the food pairings to enhance your experience. This wine pairs beautifully with hearty meals like beef stew or lamb chops, accentuating the flavors of both the dish and the wine. Additionally, it complements rich cheeses like aged cheddar or blue cheese, making it a versatile choice for gatherings. Because of its balanced profile, it can elevate both casual and formal dining experiences, ensuring enjoyment for all.

Warehouse stored item - please allow one to three business days to fulfill.

The Wine Enthusiast 96 Points | A fabulous vintage of Filius, and a total bargain for this level of quality. Layered aromas appear from first sniff: plump currants and plums, dark chocolate, savory herbs and florals, graphite and a mineral, iodine-like nuance. In the mouth, there's bright fruit and silky texture, with savory, fine tannins and a long, elegant finish. Made to drink now or to age for several more years. A wonderful intro to this distinctive Aussie style.

Expert Review - Vintage 2022

The Wine Advocate 92 Points | The 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is scented of baked red cherry and plum with nuances of graphite, tobacco, tea leaves and aniseed. The full-bodied palate offers generous, perfumed fruit. It has supple tannins and just enough juicy acidity to call you in for another sip.

James Suckling 92 Points

Plush and generous aromas of blackcurrants, mulberries and baking spices. The palate is full-bodied with finely integrated tannins and bright acidity, giving flavors of olive tapenade, blackberries and cedar. Approachable for early drinking, but it will age nicely. 

Winemaker Description 

Cakebread's classic Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon offers rich layers of ripe blackberry, plum, and boysenberry, enhanced by subtle hints of dark chocolate, baking spices, and toasty oak. The dark fruit profile is beautifully balanced by bright acidity and velvety tannins, delivering a full-bodied yet refined and elegant structure.

Blend:90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Merlot, 2% Petit Verdot, 2% Syrah, 1% Cabernet Franc.

An excellent companion to beef, rich pork dishes and game.