Profound, poised and authentic, this maiden release is the most exciting new project to come out of Stellenbosch in a decade. The Taaibosch 2018 Crescendo continues the legacy of the famed Cordoba Crescendo of the late ‘90s. It is the ultimate expression of high-altitude Cabernet Franc from prime Helderberg terroir, backed by visionary international investment and crafted by Schalk-Willem Joubert (ex-Rupert & Rothschild).

The 2018 Crescendo impresses us with its purity, complexity and finesse – it is simply exquisite. As refined as any Bordeaux in this class, at even three times the price, it is bound to become super-collectable in decades to come. This is a rare chance to be an early adopter of what is set be the perfect continuation of the legendary Cordobas of the past.

A blend of 65% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, it was matured in a combination of 225L oak barrels, 9,000L foudre and traditional 4,500L cement tanks. Having taken the original Cordoba vineyards as inspiration, which proved Cabernet Franc’s success, this harmoniously-crafted wine simply blew us away!

Taaibosch was established by the Oddo family whose global wine vision celebrates authenticity above all else. Schalk-Willem has the perfect partners in Pascal, Lorraine and Bertrand Oddo, who brings his previous experience as wine division manager at Edmond de Rothschild. Their wine business centres around unique global terroirs, including Sancerre, Provence, Stellenbosch and Sicily. Their local partners are crucial in securing a long-term aesthetic.

Custodianship is valued over impact and no expense is spared in the vineyard to ensure immaculate fruit with a light footprint on the environment. Organic principles are followed and their sustainable approach includes dedicated fynbos rehabilitation. This project is vinous at its core and set to scale new heights for SA wine.

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Vinous regards,

Tasting notes

Taaibosch, Crescendo 2018

Deep and seductive, with shy red and brooding dark fruit. An earthy, savoury base note lifted by fresh shards of crushed stone, tilled soil and aromatic herbs and wrapped up in fine oak spice accents. The palate follows with a cool entry, lively red fruit, classic Bordeaux notes of plush fruit over fine-grained tannins. Ready to drink now as it is utterly sumptuous on the palate, delivering on that seductive nose, but with such refined tannins that it is sure to last for a decade and beyond. The subtle richness is perfectly poised by balancing freshness and such exquisite purity. This wine is impressive and classic, yet undeniably modern. It is as delicious as any Bordeaux in this class at twice, even three times the price. Long, chalky and savoury-coated tannins leave a long and balanced impression. – James Pietersen (February 2021)

Most profound wine release of the year? The decade? It has to be Taaibosch – Cabernet Franc expression on prime Helderberg terroir. The old Cordoba has been revived with Schalk-Willem Joubert (ex R&R) at the helm and proper international investment. The Taaibosch Crescendo 2018 is 60/40 Cabernet Franc and Merlot, checking in at 13.5% alcohol with cement, barrel and large foudre ageing. Decades of experience meets incredible terroir. Engaging, aromatic, elegant and profound. It's new-wave wine in honesty and poise, but modern in its purity and precision. The vision is long term, which matches the perfectly structured wine. It’s very, very good. – Roland Peens (January 2021, Instagram)

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