Durbanville Hills Rhinofields Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Last week I caught up with Martin Moore who has been responsible for the wine making operation at Durbanville Hills since they were established in 1998. I first met Martin when he was at Groot Constantia making superb red wines and especially their Bordeaux blend Gouverneurs Reserve and his delicious light textured Burgundian style Pinotage. With the awards and achievements he was garnering at Groot Constantia it was therefore no surprise that in 1998 Martin was head hunted for the challenge of making the wines at Distell’s newly acquired ,Durbanville Hills.

Durbanville Hills was conceived when nine top vineyard owners in this prime wine growing area teamed up with Distell with the aim of producing wines displaying the characteristics of the regions individuality. The Durbanville region benefits from the cool onshore winds from the Atlantic seaboard close by as well as the late afternoon mists that cover the hills. These ideal conditions allow the grapes to ripen slowly which results in intense full flavoured wines. The cellar, which also comprises a tasting room and restaurant, is situated on the side of the hill which overlooks the many vineyards which supply the grapes for their winery. Martin uses highly advanced cellar technology to ensure optimal extraction of colour and flavour for the wines. However Martin spoke to us about how they continually experiment in the cellar with alternative wine making methods and techniques, and when the results prove positive they are subtly introduced to the benefit of the wines within the range.

In a relaxed fashion over lunch, Martin led us through a tasting of several wines produced at the winery while enjoying dishes from the restaurants new menu. I was onto my main course of grilled sirloin with pepper jus when Martin suggested I try the Durbanville Hills Rhinofields Cabernet Sauvignon 2009. The wine was lovely and paired the beef perfectly, and when others at the table saw how much I was enjoying the wine they decided to try it with their different main courses and were suitably impressed. The wine is full-bodied with impressive deep crimson colour and aromas of harmonious black cherry and plum with hints of fruit cake. The palate offers layers of rich black fruit flavour, swarms of fine tannins and tremendous length. Perfect to drink now but will reward even more after a further three to four years in bottle.

Expect to pay: R140.00