Le Bonheur Tricorne 2012

Stellenbosch property Le Bonheur had success at Veritas earlier this year with two wines made by Sakkie Kotzé who died earlier this year, the Bordeaux-style red blend Prima 2012 winning gold and the occasional release signature red Tricorne 2012 double gold. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Le Bonheur Prima 2012
Vinotèque price: R115
64% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon. Matured in 300-litre barrels for 18 months, using a combination of 65% new and 35% second-fill French (90%) and American (10%) oak. Red and black fruit, a definite herbal almost minty quality, chocolate and some oyster shell. Much more plush than this wine has tended to be in the past – dense fruit, just enough acidity and soft tannins.

#WinemagRating: 88/100.

Collector’s item.

Le Bonheur Tricorne 2012
Vinotèque price: R240
37% Cabernet Franc, 35% Shiraz and 28% Cabernet Sauvignon. Matured in 300-litre barrels for 26 months, using a combination of 80% new French oak and 20% second-fill American. A complex nose showing black fruit, spice as well as a slight meaty quality, vanilla and char. Rich, full and smooth textured in the best way. Good depth of flavour, the finish gently yet properly savoury.  Just a touch of herbal bite – from the Cab Franc? An old-school Stellenbosch red that’s very tasty.

#WinemagRating: 92/100.