Tasting notes:

Established as a farm in 1916, Backsberg was the first South African winery to be certified as carbon-neutral, in about 2006. The winery sponsors numerous carbon-sequestering and other sustainable projects. At the very top of Backsberg’s wine offering is Patriarch. The wine is only made in exceptional vintages from carefully selected grapes from a handful of plots. This Cabernet Franc is delicious. Deepish ruby in hue, it shows beautiful violets, crushed rose petals and cedar wood accenting the dark red berry fruits. Mid-weight, the palate has brisk acidity and silky tannins supporting the flavours. Perfumed, integrated and lingering, this gorgeous wine will match roast pork loin stuffed with sautéed onions and mushrooms or veal in a delicate cream sauce.(Patricia Stefanowicz MW)