Delheim Grand Reserve 2015 vs 2017

By now, everybody should know that 2015 and 2017 are the two great vintages of recent times, at least when it comes to Stellenbosch reds and therefore a treat to sample Grand Reserve, the top-end Cape Bordeaux from Delheim in Stellenbosch, from these years side by side. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Delheim Grand Reserve 2015
Price: R390
84% Cabernet Sauvignon 11% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc. Red and black berries, violets, tobacco, and oak spice on the nose. The palate is broad and already quite open and yet not without elegance. Tannins are fine, the finish gently savoury and many will appreciate its approachability.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Delheim Grand Reserve 2017
Price: Not yet released.
90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc. Aromatics of cassis, a hint of reduction, some leafiness, tilled earth and pencil shavings. The palate is marked by depth of fruit with fresh acidity and nicely firm tannins. Although at 14% this has slightly lower in alcohol than its counterpart above, it seems to be a tad more focused and intense.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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