59 WINES from 49 producers were reviewed for Winemag’s 2023 Report on Cape Bordeaux Red Blends, i.e. combinations of two or more of the varieties Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Delaire Graff’s Botmaskop of Stellenbosch came top in the tasting, although it was scored the same as Allée Bleue of Franschhoek and Constantia Glen – the latter with their three-way blend, having not entered their flagship made using all five Bordeaux varieties.

The judges: Winemag editor Christian Eedes (panel chair), boss of the SA Sommeliers Association Spencer Fondaumiere and Jolette Steyn of Cape Town merchant Wine Cellar.

Allée Bleue L’Amour Toujours 2018
Blend of Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot
R300pb ex-cellar, Franschhoek

Constantia Glen Three 2020
Blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc
R360pb ex-cellar, Constantia Nek

Delaire Graff Botmaskop 2021
Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, Merlot
R405pb ex-cellar, Banghoek-Stellenbosch