Babylonstoren Nebukadnesar 2022

 All the wines were made separately and matured in 85% first-fill and 15% second- and third-fill French oak barrels for 23 months. The blend was then made up and left in a tank to marry for a month before being bottled and matured for five months prior to release. This dry, full-bodied red wine has a wondrous graphite and cedar element which seamlessly incorporates every other component – brambles, spiced black cherries, blueberries, plums, oregano, thyme, fresh walnuts and a beautiful floral element of violets and pansies. The velvety tannins produce ripples of sappy freshness and bring texture and context to the fruit; sleek, supple and sinuous. This opulent wine befits its royal name and has all the attributes of greatness. Deceptively approachable now but will grow in stature and complexity over the next ten years. A wine to star at the table where the food should play the supporting role – rare roast beef or kudu fillet with a red wine sauce, roast lamb with rosemary or venison carpaccio with shaved parmesan.