Stark Conde Three Pines Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Stark Conde Three Pines Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 is a dry, full-bodied red from Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc (Stellenbosch, South Africa), in the full, structured reds style. Tannins are firm and acidity fresh; oak influence is some. Good with steak, venison, lamb, cheese board. Drink within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Organic farming is mentioned by the merchant. Critic score 94/100 (merchant-reported). Cheapest offer £29.48 at 8wines UK.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jordan Cobblers Hill 2021 Jordan · Stellenbosch | £30.13 | |||
| Antinori Guado al Tasso Il Bruciato 2023 Antinori · Tuscany | £27.79 | |||
| El Principal Memorias 2018 El Principal · Maipo Valley | £32.84 | |||
| Morgenster Estate Reserve 2014 Morgenster · Western Cape | £33.67 |
Cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant before serving. The family-run Stark Conde winery has 85 acres of vines in the dramatic Jonkershoek Valley in Stellenbosch where the unique terroir helps craft some of South Africa’s most exciting wines. The steep, rugged nature of the land means that elevation varies drastically across the estate’s vineyard, hitting a high of 600 metres and a low of 150 metres. The family also farms their estate organically to ensure that they produce the very best quality fruit possible. Their Three Pines Cabernet is crafted from fruit from its namesake single vineyard. The grapes are carefully hand harvested and sorted manually to ensure only the best quality fruit goes into this bottling. The young wine is then fermented in open tanks in the traditional style and aged in French oak barrels for 20 months. Following vinification the Cabernet is blended with small quantities of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec to add extra complexity and polish. Bright blackberry, cassis and plum notes define the nose while the palate offers a generous full body, firm tannins and well-built structure which will respond gracefully to extended cellaring. The bold flavour profile makes this a great partner for barbecued meats, steak or even hearty game dishes like venison.