Stark-Condé Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 Bottle size: 750ml

'American-born José Conde and team make various versions of Cabernet Sauvignon, including the premium, essentially single-vineyard Three Pines, and this one, which might equally be considered an estate blend: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Petite Sirah, 2% Malbec, 1% Cabernet Franc. It comes across as seamless, providing a sense of both poise and tightness. Red and black berries, violets and some leafiness plus a little reduction on the nose, while the palate shows pure fruit, bright acidity and firm but fine tannins. 2020 - 2027.' – Decanter, 96/100

'85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Petite Sirah, 2% Malbec and 1% Cabernet Franc. Matured for 20 months in 300-litre barrels, 30% new. Red and black berries, violets and some leafiness plus a little reduction on the nose while the palate gives a sense of both poise and tightness thanks to pure fruit, bright acidity and firm but fine tannins. Comes across as entirely seamless.' – Winemag Prescient Cabernet Sauvignon Report 2020, Top 10

'If you want to know what textbook Stellenbosch Cabernet tastes like - blended with 15% Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, I'll grant you - this is a very good place to start. Focused, perfumed, balanced and very fine, this has wonderful freshness and elegance. 2022-29.' – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019, 94/100

'This is our “estate” blend of Cabernet Sauvignon: it is from our 4 Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards, blended with Petit Verdot (8%), Petite Sirah (4%), Malbec (2%) and Cabernet Franc (1%). Matured in French oak for 20 months — 30% new oak and the balance in 2nd and 3rd-fill. Textbook Stellenbosch Cabernet: plush black fruits and fine, elegant tannins. An excellent vintage that will age 10 years+ if properly cellared.' – Winemaker