Tokara Director’s Reserve Red 2021

The much-lauded 2021 vintage continues to deliver, seemingly playing to the strengths of Stellenbosch property Tokara – its Reserve Collection Cabernet Sauvignon rated best overall in the most recent Prescient Cabernet Sauvignon Report, with a score of 94.

The Bordeaux-style Director’s Reserve Red has just been released, a blend which sees Cab to the fore at 70% with the balance made up of 14% Petit Verdot, 10% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec. Maturation lasted 22 months in barrel, 47% new oak.

Aromatics are complex and alluring with notes of violets, cassis, vanilla, cigar box, pencil shavings and spice. The palate is full-bodied (alcohol is 14.46%) but not at all listless, devoid of anything “green” without being dead. Excellent fruit concentration, the tannins firm but fine, the finish emphatically dry. A sophisticated, meticulously assembled offering. Price: R525 a bottle.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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