Wines Stellenbosch The Society's - Exhibition - 2021

Viniou Reviews

The Society's Cuvée Exhibition 2021 hails from Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's most renowned wine regions, particularly esteemed for its red blends. This cuvée typically showcases classic Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and perhaps a touch of Cabernet Franc or Petit Verdot, though the blend can vary by vintage. The 2021 vintage benefited from a relatively cool and temperate growing season, which allowed for slow and even ripening, resulting in expressive aromatics, freshness, and refined tannic structure. Extended skin contact and maturation in French oak barrels add complexity, offering inviting notes of blackcurrant, plum, tobacco leaf, and subtle cedar.

Stellenbosch, situated in the Western Cape's Coastal Region, enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cool ocean breezes from False Bay tempering the heat and aiding in the preservation of acidity. The region's diverse soils—ranging from decomposed granite to sandstone—provide excellent drainage and impart a sense of minerality and structure to the wines. Stellenbosch has a storied history dating to the 17th century; today, it stands as a benchmark for South African viticulture, blending Old World sensibilities with New World dynamism.

This robust red blend pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Its structure and depth make it an excellent companion to grilled lamb chops with rosemary, slow-cooked beef stew, or a classic South African bobotie—a mildly spiced baked minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. For cheese lovers, mature cheddar or aged Gouda will also complement the wine's fruit and spice notes.

For optimal enjoyment, serve The Society's Cuvée Exhibition 2021 at 16-18°C. Consider decanting for half an hour to allow the bouquet to open and the tannins to soften, revealing all the elegance and complexity this Stellenbosch classic has to offer.