2021 Raats Stellenbosch Dolomite Cabernet Franc

“The 2021 Cabernet Franc Dolomite (I erroneously thought I had tasted last year, but that was, in fact, the 2020) comes from grapes sorted three times and left to cold soak on the skins for five days, around 35% whole bunches and matured in older oak and concrete vats. I has a lovely nose, very savory in style, meat juices, Italian delicatessen and a touch of espresso coming through in time with great exuberance. The palate is well-balanced with grainy tannins, very focused and fresh with black pepper, rosemary, bay leaf and a touch of graphite. Very long with a slightly powerdery-textured finish. Excellent. Drinking window: 2024-2042” – Neal Martin Review Date: August 2023

“Dark chocolate, dried chilis, red and black bramble berries and tea leaves on the nose. Paprika and ground coriander. Medium-bodied, pure and delicious, with a wild spiciness to the fresh berry fruit, supported by very fine tannins. Drink or hold. Screw cap.” Review Date: October 2023

“Dolomite is always the most floral and approachable of Bruwer Raats' quartet of Cabernet Francs, aged in an equal combination of older oak and concrete. Tarragon, green pepper and graphite aromas are a scented prelude to a palate of tomato leaf and black cherry and a crunchy finish. 2025-30.” – Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Report Review Date: September 2024

“A well-tailored red, with fine-grained tannins and orange peel acidity married to ripe red currant and blackberry fruit, tobacco, smoke and spice notes. Drink now through 2029.” – Alison Napjus Review Date: July 2024