Product Overview
Importer's Notes:
"Raats Cabernet Franc comes from vineyards planted on cooler, southern facing slopes in Stellenbosch. The vines range from 20-27 years old and are unirrigated. Decomposed dolomite granite soils lend great acidity and freshness to the wines, as well as a lovely minerality on the finish.
The nose entices with its perfume and a garrigue character of Cape fynbos, rosemary, lavender and thyme with spicy notes of nutmeg, cloves and star anise. The palate is dominated by brambly dark berry fruit, black cherries and spice, with a lovely savory character and a streak of graphite. The palate is complex and layered, with silky, fine-grained tannins, distinct minerality and mouthwatering acidity."
Varietal Composition: 100% Cabernet Franc
Appellation: WO Stellenbosch
Aging: 18 months in French oak barrels, 25% new
91 Points - Vinous
"The 2020 Cabernet Franc Dolomite is now partially aged in concrete tank to obtain more delineation. It has a nose that grabs you by the labels and yells "I AM CABERNET FRANC" with potent bell pepper notes infusing the black fruit. The palate is medium-bodied with firm, grainy tannins, a savoury Cabernet Franc with lashings of cracked black pepper, especially on the long finish. This is a lovely Cabernet Franc." -NM, Aug/2022
90 Points - Wine Advocate
"The 2020 Dolomite Cabernet Franc is classic with fresh, dark cherries, herbal notes and elegant earth tones of baked clay. Medium-bodied, the palate offers a soft herbal edge with a food-friendly notion before showing bright acidity with a lingering hint of smoke on the finish. After resting 14 months in French oak barrels, none new, 17,269 bottles were produced. It's an honest wine at a great price that will please Cabernet Franc lovers around the globe." -AM, 7/31/23
