Louis Strydom Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz 2009

Wade Bales teams up with esteemed winemaker Louis Strydom of Ernie Els Wines.  Strydom is an understated perfectionist who has turned the name once known only for excellence in golf into one of the most highly rated South African wine brands, critically acclaimed for its well-rounded reds.

The sweet nose of this garnet-black blend shows pronounced blackberries, kirsch, olive and star anise.  Concentrated black fruits balance phenomenal intensity and power, checked by chiselled layered tannins.  Rather closed in its youth, time in the cellar will add further breadth and tame the grippy tannins, making it a stylish companion to roast leg of lamb or a hearty stew.  Best to drink between now and 2016.