Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon 1978

Going the distance.

To mark the start of the Old Mutual Trophy Wine Show, convener Michael Fridjhon typically presents a tasting of old South African wines for judges and a few other interested parties – white wines required to be 15 years on from vintage and reds 25 years on.

The absolute stand-out for me and many others present was the Cabernet Sauvignon 1978 from Nederburg. On the nose, a pleasant herbal top note before red fruit and pencil shavings. The palate showed lovely richness and texture with layers of flavour. Still very much intact.

Editor’s rating: 93/100.

Other wines worthy of remark were as follows:

John Platter Clos du Ciel Chardonnay 1996
The nose shows subtle notes of citrus, burnt matchstick and some leesy character. The palate is amazingly youth full with pure fruit, fresh acidity before a savoury finish. Good on Jasper Raats of Longridge for starting to make wine from this vineyard again!

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

Springfield Méthode Ancienne Chardonnay 2002
The nose generally shy, hints of marmalade and some nuttiness in evidence. The palate rich and broad, sweet upfront before a gently savoury finish. Most drinkable and earning renewed respect for this cuvée.

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Neethlingshof Pinotage 1973
Cherries and plums to go with some smoky, nutty notes. Rich, broad and very flavourful. Will modern-day wines from this property make four decades?

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Meerendal Shiraz 1978
Red fruit, white pepper and dried flowers on the nose. Pure fruit with lemon-like acidity and a savoury finish.

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Welgemeend Estate 1988
Red and black fruit plus some leafiness on the nose. Sweet in the best sense on entry, bright acidity lending refreshment, the tannins still relatively firm.

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

Kanonkop Paul Sauer 1983
Red fruit and an intriguing note of chicory. Medium bodied with lovely freshness and fine tannins. Good detail, the finish long and savoury.

Editor’s rating: 92/100.

Read more on the tasting here.