Capensis Silene Cabernet Sauvignon 2023

News late last year was that Graham Weerts of Capensis had been inducted into the Cape Winemakers Guild. Capensis, first bottled in 2013, was initially a Chardonnay-only venture, but Cabernet Sauvignon has now slipped into the portfolio (price: R450 a bottle).

The maiden release, the 2023 vintage, includes 9% Merlot and 6% Cabernet Franc, with grapes sourced from various Helderberg sites. Maturation lasted 14 months in oak, 30% new.

The nose shows red and black berries, wilted rose, oyster shell, earth, cocoa powder and a hint of pencil shavings. The palate is rich without tipping into excess. Capensis wines can at times feel quite full-on but here, the impression is one of succulence rather than sheer power. There’s dense fruit, smooth tannins and a nicely dry finish. Alc: 14.5%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.