Delaire Graff Botmaskop 2011

Delaire Botmaskop is a meticulously handcrafted blend of noble red varietals, all of which were aged in French oak barrels for 18 months. Classically styled, it exhibits rich layers of dark berry fruit with spicy and finely textured tannins. Powerful, yet elegant and polished. A beautiful red blend with classical aromas of dark berry fruit, spice and cassis. The softness of tannins and balance in structure complete this wine on the palate with an aging potential of five to eight years.

55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot, 9% Petit Verdot, 6% Shiraz, 2% Malbec. The Delaire Graff Winery was founded by Simon van der Stel in 1679. It is majestically situated high on the northeastern slopes of Botmaskop, a mountain peak 3.7 miles from the town of Stellboch. Originally named 'Bootmanskop,' meaning Boatman's Peak, it served as the lookout point to sight sailing ships entering Cape Town's Table Bay, 31 miles to the West. Such an event would solicit a signal to surrounding farmers alerting them of a potential market for their fresh produce. In 1982 John Platter, a well-known wine writer, bought Delaire, then known as Avontuur. Looking at the magnificent view, he decided to rename the farm Delaire Estate, meaning "From the Sky." And in 2003 Laurence Graff, Chairman of Graff Diamonds International, acquired the estate and vowed to transform it into South Africa's most desirable art, hospitality, and wine destination.