PINOTAGE is the red that they are best known for, although there’s also a Malbec in the Diemersfontein Carpe Diem Reserve range of “world-class, innovative wines” from David Sonnenberg’s estate in Wellington. Indeed, the Carpe Diem Pinotage has a distinguished track record, ranking among South Africa’s Top 100 wines over the past decade, with Carpe Diem Malbec also included in the SA Wine Classification. The Cabernet’s rise to prominence is a relatively recent phenomenon.

Diemersfontein winemaker Francois Roode was pleasantly surprised when their 2018 Cab was the most highly rated red at the 2020 National Wine Challenge. “We have been working hard to make an outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon and finally we got it right.” Talk about an understatement! It’s not entirely estate-grown: the Wellington fruit is sourced in part from a 16-year-old block on Diemersfontein and in part from a neighbour’s vineyard, to which Roode adds components from Stellenbosch as well as Franschhoek. And at under R150 a bottle for this NWC Wine of the Year, it’s one heck of a bargain.

Diemersfontein Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
WO Western Cape: grapes mainly from Wellington, giving concentration and body, black fruit, and from Stellenbosch, adding red fruit, earthy notes and bold tannin, with a small contribution from Franschhoek contributing freshness. Harvested in different batches and fermented separately using various yeast cultures. Regular pump-overs during alcoholic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation in stainless steel tanks and second-fill barrels. Maturation in second-fill barrels for 12 months before blending, stabilisation, filtration and bottling.
Alc 14 | RS 2.4 | TA 5.7 | pH 3.6
Producer’s Tasting Notes: “Cassis and cloves, with a touch of dried herb and vanilla aromas. The palate delights with elegant flavours of blueberries and cherries, followed by well-structured, firm tannins.”
Pairing Suggestions: “This wine’s ripe fruit, tannic structure and herbaceous notes tend to brighten up already hearty, rich dishes. It adds an extra sparkle to herb-crusted rack of lamb, grilled steak and even Grandma’s simple meatballs.”
Cellar-door price: R130pb.