Last month a panel gathered at Avontuur estate near Somerset West to judge 32 entries for an inaugural Cabernet Franc Challenge. The Top 6 or winners were announced at a function at the estate, which sponsored the challenge and the forthcoming Cabernet Franc carnival taking place on Saturday May 21.

The winning six cab francs are, in alphabetical order, Hermanuspietersfontein Swartskaap 2012, Holden Manz Cabernet Franc Reserve 2014, Jacob’s Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2012, KWV The Mentors Cabernet Franc 2012, KWV The Mentors Cabernet Franc 2013 and Whalehaven Cabernet Franc 2010.

Commenting on the entries, panel chairperson Christine

Rudman said that not only were the entries made with care, but the judges felt that a niche varietal like cab franc is one that winemakers need to love and make with respect as they are not likely to get rich on its proceeds. Judges were impressed with aromatics and the interweaving of fruit and herbaceous elements.

The winning wines are for sale exclusively through wine.co.za but will be on show for tasting at the carnival at Avontuur. The event takes place in the former of three tutored tastings at 11,30, 13h30 and 15h30 and will be limited to 20 persons per tasting. Tickets at R120 pp or R170 including a tutored tasting are available from  [email protected] .Live music, lunch at the restaurant or from food trucks are on the menu and at least 16 cellars are taking part in the event.

Cab franc fans will be there, and new enthusiasts will no doubt result from this great lineup.

More information available at www.avontuurestate.co.za

[Author: [email protected] (Myrna Robins)] [Category: Wine]