I have not had any wines from Stellenbosch in quite some time and so was pleasantly surprised when I came across quite a nice one…

Stellenbosch is the best-known wine region in South Africa, located in the Western Cape’s Coastal Region, just east of Cape Town. The terroir consists of primarily granite, shale, and sandstone-based soils in a hot and dry climate. Southeasterly breezes from False Bay cool the vineyards in the afternoons. Though both red and white varieties are grown, the reds predominate. Cabernet Sauvignon is the most notable of these, but the region boasts a wide variety of other red grapes, producing delicious Bordeaux blends.

The Raats Family Red Jasper 2020 is one such blend — 44% Cabernet Franc, 25% Malbec, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Petit Verdot, and 2% Merlot. It is intense on the nose, with plum and dark fruit, coupled with earthy undertones. Not as robust as some, it has an elegant/medium body, with fresh acidity and silky tannins. It is dry to medium, tasting of raspberries and ripe dark fruit. It is a pleasure to drink, by itself, with a rich cheese, or with red meat.

Founded in 2000 by Bruwer Raats, Raats Family Wines has focused on Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, consistently receiving local and international accolades for these two varietals.