Wines Robertson Carménère Ivan s - 2021 - 2021

Viniou Reviews

Carménère Ivan s 2021 from the Robertson region in the Breede Valley of South Africa is an intriguing red wine, notable for its captivating expression of the Carménère grape. Once widely grown in Bordeaux and now a flagship variety of Chile, Carménère is relatively rare in South Africa, making this cuvée particularly distinctive. The 2021 vintage benefited from mild temperatures and optimal rainfall, allowing the grape to reach ideal ripeness. The winemaking approach likely includes careful temperature-controlled fermentation to preserve aromatic freshness, followed by maturation in a combination of stainless steel and possibly oak to enhance complexity while maintaining fruit purity. In the glass, expect a deep ruby hue with an expressive nose of blackberries, black pepper, green bell pepper, and hints of tobacco, underpinned by a supple, velvety palate marked by smooth tannins and a lingering, spicy finish.

The Robertson appellation lies within the Breede Valley, a region renowned for its diversity of soils, ranging from limestone to red clay, and a climate that marries warm days with cool nights. This diurnal shift is ideal for slow grape maturation, preserving acidity and developing intricate flavours. The area’s proximity to the Breede River also tempers the summer heat, contributing to balanced, approachable wines. Rooted in a winemaking history dating back to the 19th century, Robertson has built a reputation for producing whites and, increasingly, reds of great character and freshness.

For food pairings, Carménère’s vibrant fruit and gently herbal notes make it an excellent partner for dishes such as grilled lamb cutlets served with rosemary and garlic, or a classic South African bobotie with its aromatic spicing and savoury-sweet profile. Its versatility also lends itself to Mediterranean roasted vegetables or hard cheeses such as mature Cheddar or Comté.

To fully appreciate its aromatic and textural nuance, serve this wine at around 16-18°C. Decanting for around thirty minutes is recommended to allow the wine to open up and express its full array of flavours. Enjoy over the next five to six years while its primary fruit character remains at its peak.