Le Riche Wines, renowned specialists in Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon for 27 years, proudly introduces the release of their 2020 vintage flagship Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon on July 3, 2023. Distinguishing itself as a world-class Cabernet, the 2020 Reserve earned an impressive ‘Best in Class’ accolade (97 points) at the esteemed 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA). This accolade places it among the distinguished ‘Top 50 Wines’ recognized by this global benchmark competition.
In its 20th year, the DWWA stands as the world’s largest and most influential wine competition, breaking records with a remarkable evaluation of 18,250 wines from 57 countries. Judged by 236 esteemed wine experts worldwide, the DWWA holds international trust due to its esteemed panel and rigorous evaluation process.
LE RICHE RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2020
Showcasing a masterclass in blending select Stellenbosch terroirs, the Le Riche Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 stands as a commanding representation of the utmost excellence that Le Riche achieves.
Vineyards and Winemaking: The Cabernet grapes, meticulously chosen from the most exceptional vineyard parcels in Stellenbosch’s Helderberg Coastal, Simonsberg, and Helderberg Mountain, undergo meticulous care. Micro-vinification of individual vineyard blocks culminates in a final blend of unparalleled quality. Employing open-top concrete fermenters, manual plunging to optimize color extraction, extended maceration for enhanced ageability, and the utilization of premium French oak (76% new French oak for 24 months), this distinguished wine reflects unparalleled craftsmanship. Unfiltered and unfined, the wine matures in the bottle for an additional year before release.
Tasting Notes: Exemplifying classic Cabernet style, the vibrant nose reveals blackcurrant, cassis, black cherry, and cedar notes, mirrored on the palate. With an air of mystery and density, the wine maintains sophistication and elegance. The palate boasts richness, velvety texture, and opulence, paired with remarkable freshness and linear structure. Displaying black fruit, creamy mouthfeel, and a dark chocolate finish, the wine’s powerful structure is underscored by rounded, structured tannins. With a captivatingly long, complex finish, this wine holds great maturation potential, representing a true investment. Undoubtedly, one of le Riche’s finest vintages.
Food Pairing: The Le Riche family particularly savors their flagship Cabernet with a succulent steak, particularly fillet or rump, grilled or charred.
Awards: ‘Best in Class’ at the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards
Acquisition: The Le Riche Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is now available for purchase at the Le Riche Cellar, select wine stores nationwide, and online at www.leriche.co.za for R950 per bottle.
Secure your Reserve 2020 vintage while supplies last.
LE RICHE RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON
The coveted Le Riche Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, the pinnacle of the range, stands as a statuesque embodiment of Le Riche’s finest craftsmanship. Meticulous vineyard selection and sourcing of grapes from the most exceptional blocks in Stellenbosch are mirrored by the meticulous care in the winery. The wine exudes opulence and generosity, boasting bold elegance, intricate layers, refined yet powerful tannins, classic cassis fruit core, subtle oak integration, refreshing vibrancy, and exceptional aging potential. It is a wine created with unwavering commitment to quality and consistency, embodying a legacy of reserve status earned through exceptional standards.
Over 23 vintages, the esteemed Le Riche Reserve Cabernet has garnered immense acclaim, earning high scores and international recognition. Amidst various local and global accolades, including 95+ scores from esteemed critics Tim Atkin MW, Greg Sherwood MW, and Christian Eedes, this wine has secured Platter’s highest five-star rating ten times: for the 1997 (maiden vintage), 1999, 2000, 2005, 2007 Le Riche CWG Auction Reserve, 2011, 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019 (current vintage). The Platter’s 2010 Guide honored the 2005 Reserve Cabernet as their Red Wine of the Year. Notably, the 2015 and 2019 vintages were named ‘Cabernet of the Year’ in the Platter’s 2019 and 2023 guides respectively. Further establishing Le Riche’s Cabernet excellence, the Le Riche Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 clinched the Cabernet Sauvignon Trophy in the 2021 Global Fine Wine Challenge for New World Wine Countries. Notably, Le Riche achieved both the winner and runner-up prizes in the same year.
Continuing the Le Riche legacy of Cabernet prestige, the 2020 Reserve vintage proudly earned the ‘Best in Class’ accolade at the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards, further solidifying its place as a world-class Cabernet and one of the finest 50 wines globally.
