Wines Stellenbosch Journey's End - Sir Lowry Cabernet Sauvignon - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Journey's End Cuvée Sir Lowry Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 is an exemplary red wine from Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's most renowned winegrowing areas. Crafted exclusively from Cabernet Sauvignon, this cuvée showcases the varietal's classic depth and structure. The 2023 vintage benefits from a favourable growing season, with moderate temperatures and cool nights encouraging slow ripening and optimal flavour development. Expect a bouquet of blackcurrant, ripe plum and subtle notes of cedar, with fine-grained tannins and a lingering, elegant finish. The wine is matured in French oak, enhancing its layered complexity while retaining the vibrant fruit at its core.

Stellenbosch, located in the Coastal Region, enjoys a temperate maritime climate with cooling breezes from False Bay. The area's diverse soils—ranging from decomposed granite to sandstone and clay—offer excellent drainage and impart distinct minerality and depth to the wines. Stellenbosch has a proud vinicultural heritage dating back to the 17th century, and today stands as the heartland of premium South African Cabernet Sauvignon. The unique terroir, coupled with meticulous winemaking, has positioned this region among the world’s leading producers of refined, age-worthy reds.

With its robust structure and pronounced fruit character, this wine is perfectly suited to hearty meat dishes. Classic pairings include grilled ribeye steak, roast lamb with rosemary, or beef short ribs slow-cooked in a rich sauce. For a local touch, try it with South African bobotie or braai-grilled venison. Vegetarians can enjoy it with mushroom and lentil Wellington or smoky aubergine parmigiana.

For optimal tasting, serve Journey’s End Cuvée Sir Lowry Cabernet Sauvignon at a temperature of 16-18°C. Decanting for 30 minutes before serving will allow the wine to open fully, revealing its aromatic complexity and supple texture. This 2023 vintage can be enjoyed now, but will also reward a few years of careful cellaring.