South African & International Fine Wine
Live Auction, 14 September 2019
Session Two
About this Item
Provenance
Producer
Critics Ratings
'Warwick Wine Estate is one of the best-known South African estates based in Stellenbosch. Stan Ratcliffe purchased the estate in 1964 and immediately focused upon Cabernet Sauvignon, debuting the "Trilogy" with the 1986 vintage (see my report on ancient South Africa wines.) Cabernet still occupies just over 20-hectares of which one-quarter is under drip irrigation. The Cabernet is complemented by classic French grape varieties and 8-hectares of Pinotage. I tasted the wines both at the winery and in the UK.' - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate 90/100 (2011)
'Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Inky crimson. Fine dark fruit intensity on the nose, with Cab Franc leafy/minty character showing through in the aromas. Supple and satisfying, fine fruit purity and plenty of structure for a long life. Firm grip on the finish makes it even more mouthwatering.' - Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com 17/20 (2012)