Cabernet Franc (70%), Petit Verdot (15%), Merlot (9%), Cabernet Franc (6%)
75cl * Vegan & Sustainable * 14% ABV * Stellenbosch, South Africa
Named after the founder’s children, Thomas and Kara, the Tokara winery is nestled among vineyards and olive groves on the crest of the Helshoogte Pass. Tokara rests on the Stellenbosch side of the Banghoek Valley, between 350m and 550m above sea level, with sweeping views across False Bay and all the way to Table Mountain.
The combination of climate, rich, fertile soil and the unique aspect of the property make for exciting variability between the vineyard sites. Soil profiles are of weathered sandstone and decomposed granite, the combination lending structure, perfume and longevity to the Tokara wines. Over the years, parcels of the best grapes have been identified in the vineyards and used to create exceptional individual batches. The winemaker then blends these batches to produce the top tier wines that Tokara are known for.
The 2021 Director's Reserve Red is a lovely Bordeaux blend grown on the slopes of Stellenbosch's Simonsberg mountains. It's big and brooding, but lifted by a freshness from the high altitude vineyards and the floral aromatics from the petit verdot. There's plum, mint and cassis, with layers of chocolate and tobacco, enveloped by velvety tannins. The finish is long and spiced, with cedar wood and toasted oak coming through. Perfect with lamb rump. This will age nicely until at least 2034.