Clean aromas of blackberry and cassis are joined by Shiraz spice. Flavors are rich and somewhat soft on entry, with black fruit and touches of licorice and smoky, meaty notes. The Cabernet and its structuring tannins dominate, but the Shiraz provides great filler, adding coffee and mocha notes as it opens up. Medium plus in body and length.

WINE INFORMATION

Bob Lynde is a native of Portland Oregon who fell in love with South Africa and its wines while the country still faced an international economic boycott.  When the boycott was lifted in the early ‘90s, he was ready, founding Cape Classics, one of the first companies to import South African wines to the US.  He began a collaborative project with local growers, the “Bob’s African” line of wines—solid sippers offering great value—and 10% of the proceeds went to local NGOs in the communities where the wines were produced.  He sold the import company in 2005 to focus on developing the Fat Barrel Brand, which includes both South African and Oregon wines, and continues the Bob’s wines as well.

The Fat Barrel line of wines uses fruit grown by “selected” growers that Fat Barrel has worked with for more than 10 years.

The 2018 vintage was one of the most difficult vintages in South Africa’s history as the country was in the middle dramatic drought.  Yields were exceptional small, returning excellent quality fruit. Grapes for this wine came from 4 different sites. The Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz were fermented and aged separately. The Cabernet grapes were aged in French and American oak for 4-6 months while the Shiraz remained unoaked.

Charcuterie, Grilled preparations, Hearty stew, Lamb, Mexican, Mushrooms, Pork, Roasted Root Vegetables, Sausage, Slow-smoked Barbeque/BBQ Sauce, Tomato Sauce