It is no secret that we love Cabernet Franc. Bruwer Raats has dedicated his life to mastering this noble variety, with the first Raats Cabernet Franc released in 2001. As one of the pillars of our brand, Family Reserve Cabernet Franc reigns supreme as one of our most beloved expressions of this noble variety.
Critically acclaimed, this wine is consistently ranked as one of the world's best expressions of Cabernet Franc, and the 2023 vintage is no exception. Where the 2022 proudly became the first vintage to carry the RESERVE name, the 2023 carries that legacy forward, every bit as deserving of its place in your cellar.
Soon to be released globally, with only 25 cases available, we give you, our private club members, the first opportunity to add the new vintage to your collection with this limited pre-release offer.
Harvested at perfect ripeness from 21 to 28 year old vines high up on the Vlaeberg mountain in Polkadraai Hills, in ancient decomposed granite soils, the grapes are hand sorted three times, crushed and left to cold soak on the skins for five days, whereafter the wine is aged for 18 months in French oak barrels.
The nose entices with its perfume and a garrigue character of Cape fynbos, rosemary, lavender and thyme, layered with spicy notes of nutmeg, cloves and star anise. Intense brooding blackberry fruit, graphite and a streak of minerality add further complexity. It drinks beautifully now, yet rewards the patient: cellar it correctly and it will mature gracefully for more than ten years.
This wine pays homage to our roots in Polkadraai Hills and our dedication to this variety. See how our label has evolved over the last two decades with a close up of the 2023 vintage alongside an image of the original 2001 vintage, still standing proud. We can assure you that both vintages are delicious to this day, emphasising the pedigree and ageability of this wine.
