Cabernet Sauvignon, Stark-Condé, Stellenbosch, ZA, 2020

The 2020 Stark-Condé Cabernet Sauvignon (Stellenbosch, South Africa) received strong critical praise, particularly for its balance, structure, and value.

Winemaker tasting profile

The estate describes the wine as showing:

• Blackberry fruit
• Tea leaf and cedar aromas
• Rich, polished palate
• Dark fruit and mocha flavors
• Balanced acidity
• Long finish with fine Jonkershoek Valley tannins

Technical details

• Region: Stellenbosch (Jonkershoek Valley), South Africa
• Vintage: 2020
• Alcohol: 14–14.5%
• Blend: Primarily Cabernet Sauvignon with small additions of Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and other Bordeaux varieties depending on the final blend.

Drinking window

Based on the critics' comments and the wine's structure:

• Drink now: Yes, with decanting.
• Peak: Approximately 2026–2034.
• The Platter's review specifically notes it is worth cellaring.

Overall assessment

The consensus places the 2020 vintage in the 93-point range, making it an excellent-value Stellenbosch Cabernet. Reviewers consistently emphasize:

• Classic Cabernet aromatics (blackberry, cedar, tea leaf)
• Freshness and balance rather than excessive ripeness
• Fine-grained tannins
• Good aging potential
• Strong expression of the Jonkershoek Valley terroir