2024 Stellenbosch Reserve Ou Hoofgebou Cabernet Sauvignon is a rich and expressive wine that mirrors the stately presence of its namesake, the historic Old Main Building in Stellenbosch. The bouquet opens with layers of cassis, black cherry, and dark chocolate, elegantly framed by subtle notes of cedar, nutmeg, and liquorice. On the palate, the wine is full and finely structured, showcasing ripe, elegant tannins and a fresh thread of acidity. Dark fruit flavours unfold with complex hints of thyme and cigar box, leading to a long, poised finish. Matured for 12 months in seasoned French oak, this classic expression of Stellenbosch Cabernet possesses the depth and balance to age gracefully.
2024 / 0.75 l / 14,2% / Stellenbosch – South Africa
About the Winery
The Stellenbosch Reserve is a premium range of wines established by Jean Engelbrecht as a tribute to the historic town of Stellenbosch—South Africa’s center for wine, academia, and culture. While Rust en Vrede focuses on wines produced from its own vineyards, the Stellenbosch Reserve celebrates the diversity of the broader region. Each wine in the collection is named after an iconic landmark or historical building, such as the Moederkerk (Mother Church) or the Ou Hoofgebou (Old Main Building), highlighting the town’s architectural and cultural legacy. The winemaking team, led by Danielle le Roux (Cape Wine Master), uses their extensive regional knowledge to craft wines that are approachable yet maintain the elegance and structure synonymous with the Engelbrecht family portfolio. The range includes classic varietals such as Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which together capture the authentic charm of Stellenbosch.
Terroir
The terroir for the Stellenbosch Reserve range is defined by a selection of vineyards from across the Stellenbosch region, notably from the Helderberg, Simonsberg, and Devon Valley areas. This diversity allows the winemakers to utilize various soil types, including deep red Tukulu, Oakleaf, and decomposed granite, adding complexity and multi-layered character to the wines.
The climate is typically Mediterranean, with mild winters and warm, dry summers tempered by cooling breezes from False Bay. These varied microclimates—ranging from cooler mountain slopes to warmer valleys—enable the Stellenbosch Reserve to produce both robust, full-bodied reds and fresh, aromatic white wines
