Description
The Koelenhof Stellenbosch 1679 Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is a classic, full-bodied Stellenbosch Cabernet built around structure, dark fruit intensity, and long-term aging potential. Produced from mature vineyards rooted in decomposed granite soils, this wine reflects both the concentration of the vintage and the depth associated with the region.
The nose shows aromas of blackberry, dark plum, and liquorice, layered with subtle herbal freshness and oak spice. On the palate, the wine is rich and structured, with concentrated dark fruit supported by balanced, finely textured tannins. Hints of cassis and savory herbs add complexity, while the extended oak maturation brings polish and depth. The finish is long, firm, and built to evolve beautifully over time.
A serious red that pairs naturally with beef, lamb, venison, and slow-cooked game dishes.
The nose shows aromas of blackberry, dark plum, and liquorice, layered with subtle herbal freshness and oak spice. On the palate, the wine is rich and structured, with concentrated dark fruit supported by balanced, finely textured tannins. Hints of cassis and savory herbs add complexity, while the extended oak maturation brings polish and depth. The finish is long, firm, and built to evolve beautifully over time.
A serious red that pairs naturally with beef, lamb, venison, and slow-cooked game dishes.
The grapes were sourced from 21-year-old vineyards planted in decomposed granite, Oakleaf, and Tukulu soils. A dry growing season with warm days and cool nights produced small berries with excellent concentration and phenolic ripeness.
Fermentation took place over 9 days in rotor fermenters at 25°C, allowing for balanced extraction of color, tannin, and flavor. The wine was then matured for 24 months in new 225L French oak barrels from Tonnellerie Bossuet, adding structure, complexity, and aging potential while preserving the integrity of the fruit.
Winemaker: Koelenhof Cellar Team
Fermentation took place over 9 days in rotor fermenters at 25°C, allowing for balanced extraction of color, tannin, and flavor. The wine was then matured for 24 months in new 225L French oak barrels from Tonnellerie Bossuet, adding structure, complexity, and aging potential while preserving the integrity of the fruit.
Winemaker: Koelenhof Cellar Team
Established in 1941 as a humble grower-owned cooperative, Koelenhof Wine Cellar has transformed into one of the most significant and beloved pillars of the Stellenbosch wine route. Still steered by the founding De Vries family, Koelenhof is the quintessential "people's winery," championing the philosophy that world-class wine shouldn't require a premium price tag. The estate is a pioneer in South African viticulture - famously being the first to produce white wine from red grapes (Cinsault Blanc) and among the first to modernize with fully automated pressing technology.
Today, it serves as a massive collective for 70 local shareholders, blending large-scale production with a boutique commitment to quality. From their iconic roosterkoek (a popular South African bread cooked on the barbecue) and family-friendly tasting room, to their multi-award-winning Stellenbosch 1679 range, Koelenhof remains the gold standard for accessible excellence, consistently earning the title of "South Africa’s Best Value Cellar."
Today, it serves as a massive collective for 70 local shareholders, blending large-scale production with a boutique commitment to quality. From their iconic roosterkoek (a popular South African bread cooked on the barbecue) and family-friendly tasting room, to their multi-award-winning Stellenbosch 1679 range, Koelenhof remains the gold standard for accessible excellence, consistently earning the title of "South Africa’s Best Value Cellar."
* Prior vintage described.
