Raats | Dolomite Cabernet Franc | 2018
Raats | Dolomite Cabernet Franc | 2018
While Cabernet Franc hasn’t always been as popular as its offspring (Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot), Raats are the absolute Cabernet Franc specialists, giving this grape the attention it deserves, and the results are astounding. The Dolomite Cabernet Franc is produced from 95% Cabernet Franc and 5% Malbec, grown only on decomposed dolomite granite, which gives a great acidity and freshness to the wine and adds minerality to the finish. A lighter expression of Cab Franc, this is great slightly chilled on a summer’s evening. If you’re in the mood for something a little heavier, try their Family Cabernet Franc!
Nose & Palate
The nose shows dark fruits and red cherry. Dark berries, spiciness and herbs linger on the palate. The wine has great purity of fruit with a hint of wet-stone minerality and a velvet soft finish.
Pairing
If you somehow have access to springbok or kudu (not impala) in Hong Kong, this will pair perfectly. For those without access to antelope, try pork loin with plum and Armagnac sauce or pheasant with a red wine sauce.
Accolades
4½ stars - Platter’s 2020 SA Wine Guide | 91 points - Tim Atkin 2020 SA Wine Report | 92 points - Christian Eedes from winemag.co.za in the #AltVarReport (2019)
About the Winery
For Raats Family Wines it’s all about two grapes; Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc. Their mission to consistently produce outstanding quality wines from these two varieties has earned Raats a stellar international reputation. Raats wines have received glowing write-ups by esteemed wine reviewers such as Tim Atkin, Olly Smith, Matthew Jukes, Neil Martin, James Molesworth and Jancis Robinson.
In further pursuit of perfection, founder Bruwer Raats formed MR de Compostella with long-time friend and winemaker Mzokona Mvemve. The result has been a wine that has achieved consistent world-class quality, vintage after vintage.