Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, International Malbec Day is a perfect opportunity to raise a glass of this dark, inky coloured, full bodied wine - bursting with intense flavours of black cherry, plum and raspberries.
Originally from France, where it was primarily used as a blending grape in Bordeaux blends it was introduced, in the mid-19th century, to Argentina. Here it thrived in the high-altitude vineyards of Mendoza and has since become the signature grape of Argentina.
Raise a glass of Malbec with us this weekend and save 12% on selected Malbec wines under £12 a bottle and 15% off wines over £12! Promotion ends on Monday 15th April at midnight!
2019 De Toren Fusion V
Regular price £42.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%The iconic Left Bank-based blend from De Toren Fusion V is meticulously crafted from Bordeaux’s ‘Noble Five’ varietals and, with its complex flavours of liquorice, black cherry, cedar and dark berries, it offers a stylish departure for sophisticated oenophilic tastes. Soft as spun silk, with a lingering hint of sweet fruit on the back palate, this is a wine that will only improve with age.
Tim Atken - UK (95 Points)
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, a bouquet of ripe sweet red cherries, blueberries, sweet spice, and subtle nuances of oak prevail, accentuating the fruit. Seamlessly integrated and immensely elegant.
Palate
The taste profile of Fusion V 2019 is vibrant and moderately full bodied. Fine-grained, yet polished tannins are present in this wine. The red cherry bouquet is unmistakable, leaving the 2019 vintage creamy, layered and delightfully well-balanced for its age.
Producer
De Toren proprietors Emil and Sonette den Dulk left Johannesburg in 1991 to establish their vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. Situated on southern-facing slopes overlooking False Bay De Toren enjoys the cooling effect of constant ocean breezes. Taking a holistic approach to keeping vineyard soils healthy and balanced viticulturalist Ernest Manuel employs sustainable farming practices throughout the property. Infrared Aerial Imaging is used extensively in order to monitor ripeness in various vineyard blocks and determine optimal picking times although actual harvesting and production are done almost entirely by hand. The winery is operated on gravity flow principles; a 4000 liter pressure tank in an elevator shaft (the Tower from which the winery takes its name) is cleverly used to exploit gravity in transporting wine between tanks and barrels without the use of mechanical pumps. As a result of De Toren’s innovative minimal intervention production methods their wines were among the first South African bottlings to qualify for IP (Integrated Production) certification by the Wine and Spirit Board.
The Den Dulks and winemaker Albie Koch seem to have found the key to success with their simple winemaking philosophy: gentle handling no pumps and minimum manipulation. Armed with this winning formula the boutique farm has quickly risen to the ranks of South Africa’s winemaking elite with their duo of dazzling stylish and complex five-varietal Bordeaux blends: the flagship Fusion V (which debuted in the 1999 vintage and has been hailed by Wine Spectator as a consistently polished outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend) and the Merlot-based Z introduced with the 2004 vintage.
Barrel Maturation
Aged in a climatized barrel/ maturation room (16 degrees Celsius at 80% humidity) for 12 months in approximately 50% new and 50% second fill, 225 Litre Oak barrels. French Oak is predominantly used during maturation, with a portion of the Malbec receiving the benefit of American Oak.
Accolades
- Tim Atken - UK (95 Points)
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml (also available in a Magnum Gift Pack) |
Cultivar | Cabernet Sauvignon 56.9%, Malbec 14.4%, Cabernet Franc 9.6%, Merlot 14.4%, Petit Verdot 4.7% |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14.48% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 11 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring Potential | If stored in optimal conditions, this wine should last up to 20 years plus. |
Food Matches |
With nuanced and complexed flavours, our renowned De Toren Fusion V wine pairs exceptionally well with perfectly tender grilled or roast lamb, with garlic, rosemary and a hint of honey lemon. For optimum enjoyment, decant at least one hour before consumption. It is recommended to serve this wine at optimal temperature (15 – 18 degrees Celcius). |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2019 Paul Wallace Black Dog Malbec
Regular price £25.49 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A memorable wine with a lot of character; one that embodies the elegance of Elgin fruit. It is named after Paul’s beefy black shadow, a cross Labrador/Rottweiler, named Jake. The Malbec grape is also known as the Black Grape and it is this characteristic that has been incorporated into the name.
Tasting Notes
Colour
Lean, dark and intense
Nose
The Black Dog Malbec presents with an intriguing somewhat exotic nose, conjuring up hints of blueberries, blackberries, blackcurrants and juicy red plums.
Palate
The entry onto the palate is a satisfying fruit-filled mouthful of both red and black fruits linked by a thread of spice and held together with silky tannins – just enough to contribute to food friendliness.
Winery
Paul Wallace Wines is a small family-run business with the farm located in Elgin, previously best known for its apples and pears, which is one of the most exciting developing wine regions within the South African wine industry and indeed internationally.
Vinification
The three individual blocks that comprise their Malbec plantings each have their own unique profile due to different row direction and training systems. Each block was harvested separately, each contributing it’s own unique building block. Left on the skins, post-fermentation before being transferred into 225 and 300-lit French oak barriques, where MLF took place. The wine spent approximately 18 months in wood with a 20% new wood component. 15% was matured in a concrete egg, contributing towards the fruit driven profile and adding yet another building block to the final compilation.
Accolade
- 90 points | 2022 Platters Guide (2018 Vintage)
- 90 points Silver | IWSC (2018 Vintage)
- 92 points Winemag.co.za (2018 Vintage)
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Malbec |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
The ideal accompaniment to red meat dishes, beef steak, game or slow-roasted lamb or should it take your fancy, sit in front of a fire, sip slowly and dip into a bowl of pistachio nuts or biltong. |
Origin | Elgin |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2019 Paul Wallace Crackerjack Bordeaux Blend
Regular price £25.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This wine came about as an indulgence to the lady of the house, who is particularly partial to fine Bordeaux-styled blend. Together Paul and Nicky Wallace have put together a "cracker" of a wine, blending and showcasing the versatility of Elgin.
Tasting Notes
The alluring bright colour immediately invites one to explore this wine further. Merlot driven (think Bordeaux Right Bank) and power packed with fresh fruits encompassing both the red and black fruit spectrums, with a savoury core.
Notes of fresh cherry, cranberry, plum and blackcurrant on the palate, with chocolate and vanilla on the finish. Rich and opulent, yet bright and feminine, this little “cracker” is the perfect example of how the whole sum is better than the parts and of how the individual components support and enhance one another.
Winery
Paul Wallace Wines is a small family-run business with the farm located in Elgin, previously best known for its apples and pears, which is one of the most exciting developing wine regions within the South African wine industry and indeed internationally.
Vinification
The grapes all originate for the Elgin region, a high-lying basin surrounded by mountain ranges. Naturally the Malbec hails from Paul and Nicky’s farm, Wallovale Vineyards, whilst the other three grape varieties were bought in from Elgin grape producers with whom Paul has a direct involvement. A Cabernet Franc vineyard has been planted on Paul and Nicky’s farm but the first commercial harvest is only expected in 2020.
Each parcel of grapes was harvested at its own optimum ripeness and vinified separately at Eikendal Winery, Somerset West. Each wine was inoculated with Zymalore Xpure, a yeast recommended for wines with high aromatic purity, enhanced expression of black fruit notes and a great smoothness of mouthfeel. Post fermentation the wine was left for 14 days on the skins. Thereafter each wine was transferred to barrel where they completed Malolactic fermentation. The wines spent a minimum of 24 months in 225 lit French oak barriques prior to blending. The wine received a light filtration before bottling on 8th July 2021.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 40% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Malbec. |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red White |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
We recommend the Crackerjack as the perfect accompaniment to your Sunday roast lamb, lasagna and tomato-based stews. Enjoy! |
Origin | Elgin |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
De Toren Délicate NV
Regular price £19.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Redolent of roses and ripe-for-the-picking strawberries, the refreshing De Toren Délicate is an elegant red blend that combines red’s seductiveness with the undeniable drinkability of white.
Medium-bodied and immeasurably gentle, it offers up an abundance of juicy fruit and velvety, smooth tannins that lead to a sophisticated finish. Delicious on its own as an apéritif, it’s also the perfect consort to the lingering pleasures of Spanish tapas or a platter of the finest French charcuterie.
Tasting Notes
A seductive, elegant red blend from this Stellenbosch based red wine specialist.
Notes of juicy red fruit dominate on this wine, with some freeze-dried strawberries and raspberries and a touch of rose. Medium-bodied, velvety tannins and deliciously drinkable.
Behind the Wine
An innovative reimagining of red wine, the French-inspired De Toren Délicate is a fresh and light cépage that reveals its best assets when served slightly chilled. While it displays intense red undertones, this limited-production wine is soft and delicate on the palate, making it the perfect culinary consort, not to mention the reason a number of the world’s top dining establishments choose it specifically for their dedicated tasting menus.
Maturation
The Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon are carefully matured in third fill French oak barrels for twelve months. The Malbec is fermented and aged in stainless steel tanks to retain the primary fruit aromas and freshness of the wine.
Accolades
- 87pts | Platter's
Specifications
Year | Non vintage |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
Malbec 49%, Merlot 20%, Cabernet Franc 16%, Cabernet Sauvignon 15% |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring Potential | De Toren Délicate should be enjoyed immediately, due to the low tannins. We want wine lovers to enjoy the wine as was intended from the beginning. |
Food Matches |
Perfect on its own as an aperitif or with a lunchtime salad, a tantalizing Spanish tapas or cheese platter, including a beautiful array of preserves, homemade jams, matured cheese and cured meats. This wine has very versatile food pairing possibilities. To release all the wonderful flavours of this wine, it is recommended to decant this wine at least one hour before the time and to serve this wine slightly chilled (11 - 13 degrees Celsius). |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2019 De Toren Fusion V Magnum Gift Box
Regular price £99.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, a bouquet of ripe sweet red cherries, blueberries, sweet spice, and subtle nuances of oak prevail, accentuating the fruit. Seamlessly integrated and immensely elegant.
Palate
The taste profile of Fusion V 2019 is vibrant and moderately full-bodied. Fine-grained, yet polished tannins are present in this wine. The red cherry bouquet is unmistakable, leaving the 2019 vintage creamy, layered, and delightfully well-balanced for its age.
Producer
De Toren proprietors Emil and Sonette den Dulk left Johannesburg in 1991 to establish their vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. Situated on southern-facing slopes overlooking False Bay De Toren enjoys the cooling effect of constant ocean breezes. Taking a holistic approach to keeping vineyard soils healthy and balanced viticulturalist Ernest Manuel employs sustainable farming practices throughout the property. Infrared Aerial Imaging is used extensively in order to monitor ripeness in various vineyard blocks and determine optimal picking times although actual harvesting and production are done almost entirely by hand. The winery is operated on gravity flow principles; a 4000 liter pressure tank in an elevator shaft (the Tower from which the winery takes its name) is cleverly used to exploit gravity in transporting wine between tanks and barrels without the use of mechanical pumps. As a result of De Toren’s innovative minimal intervention production methods their wines were among the first South African bottlings to qualify for IP (Integrated Production) certification by the Wine and Spirit Board.
The Den Dulks and winemaker Albie Koch seem to have found the key to success with their simple winemaking philosophy: gentle handling no pumps and minimum manipulation. Armed with this winning formula the boutique farm has quickly risen to the ranks of South Africa’s winemaking elite with their duo of dazzling stylish and complex five-varietal Bordeaux blends: the flagship Fusion V (which debuted in the 1999 vintage and has been hailed by Wine Spectator as a consistently polished outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend) and the Merlot-based Z introduced with the 2004 vintage.
Barrel Maturation
Aged in a climatized barrel/ maturation room (16 degrees Celsius at 80% humidity) for 12 months in approximately 50% new and 50% second fill, 225 Litre Oak barrels. French Oak is predominantly used during maturation, with a portion of the Malbec receiving the benefit of American Oak.
Accolades
- Tim Atken - UK (95 Points)
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 1.5cl Magnum |
Cultivar | Cabernet Sauvignon 56.9%, Malbec 14.4%, Cabernet Franc 9.6%, Merlot 14.4%, Petit Verdot 4.7% |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14.48% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 21.7 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring Potential | If stored in optimal conditions, this wine should last up to 20 years plus. |
Food Matches |
With nuanced and complexed flavours, our renowned De Toren Fusion V wine pairs exceptionally well with perfectly tender grilled or roast lamb, with garlic, rosemary and a hint of honey lemon. For optimum enjoyment, decant at least one hour before consumption. It is recommended to serve this wine at optimal temperature (15 – 18 degrees Celcius). |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2017 De Toren Fusion Z
Regular price £39.95 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Reveals subtle hints of spices, ripe blackberries, plum and cherries. The integrated, complex and beautifully rounded tannins of this expressive and superbly vibrant blend ensure a velvety, lingering finish. At the olfactory level, there is a subtle hint of aniseed on the nose. This full-bodied blend maintains a sleek tannin structure with an immaculate developing palate.
Charles Williams | Cellar Master
Tasting Notes
This soft, approachable ruby-hued beauty is a true testament to vines lovingly reared and winemaking raised to an art form. A Right Bank-style Bordeaux blend, De Toren Z comprises a symphonic blend of five Bordeaux varietals. You’ll find it tantalizingly soft on the tongue, with a hint of aniseed, liquorice, raspberry and cranberries lending a fresh acidity to its polished finish… plus, of course, all the finesse that makes Bordeaux-style wines so prized among the world’s most enthusiastic wine lovers.
Vintage
When the stars and all the elements collide to produce a spectacularly good harvest, the results are always felt (and tasted, of course) in the wine. Industry wide the season of 2017 was earmarked as spectacular, and for De Toren, it was no different. The year 2017 is fondly remembered by our team for the incredible craftsmanship that went into producing one of the most outstanding vintages yet of De Toren Z, our famed Right Bank Bordeaux-styled blend.It was a season when perfectly ripened vine fruits were optimally harvested; gently reaped and sorted by the hands of our team of ladies, so that only the finest grapes were put forward for pressing and maturation in the cellar. This is the journey that our cellar team at De Toren undertook to co-create a superlative wine, i.e., De Toren Z 2017 vintage, in partnership with our key collaborator, Mother Nature. The favourable weather conditions of the season contributed to making the 2017 vintage one of the finest yet. It was a year in which the vines were perfectly balanced and restrained, producing the smallest, most concentrated berries. These hand-harvested grapes were transformed by sustainable and intelligent viniculture, resulting in this coveted vintage of De Toren Z being the highest awarded vintage yet and a true collector’s prize. At De Toren, the noble Bordeaux varietals are an expression of ancient South African soils and our signature winemaking style. As a result of all these factors – terroir, timing, technique and passion – commands attention on the palate when savouring the acclaimed De Toren Z 2017.
Producer
De Toren proprietors Emil and Sonette den Dulk left Johannesburg in 1991 to establish their vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. Situated on southern-facing slopes overlooking False Bay De Toren enjoys the cooling effect of constant ocean breezes. Taking a holistic approach to keeping vineyard soils healthy and balanced viticulturalist Ernest Manuel employs sustainable farming practices throughout the property. Infrared Aerial Imaging is used extensively in order to monitor ripeness in various vineyard blocks and determine optimal picking times although actual harvesting and production are done almost entirely by hand. The winery is operated on gravity flow principles; a 4000 liter pressure tank in an elevator shaft (the Tower from which the winery takes its name) is cleverly used to exploit gravity in transporting wine between tanks and barrels without the use of mechanical pumps. As a result of De Toren’s innovative minimal intervention production methods their wines were among the first South African bottlings to qualify for IP (Integrated Production) certification by the Wine and Spirit Board.
The Den Dulks and winemaker Albie Koch seem to have found the key to success with their simple winemaking philosophy: gentle handling no pumps and minimum manipulation. Armed with this winning formula the boutique farm has quickly risen to the ranks of South Africa’s winemaking elite with their duo of dazzling stylish and complex five-varietal Bordeaux blends: the flagship Fusion V (which debuted in the 1999 vintage and has been hailed by Wine Spectator as a consistently polished outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend) and the Merlot-based Z introduced with the 2004 vintage.
Accolades
This is indeed a decidedly beautiful wine. As a result, UK-based Master of Wine (SA), Greg Sherwood, granted the De Toren Z 2017 a remarkable 95 points. British Master of Wine, Tim Atkin, was of the same opinion and awarded it a stellar 93 points. These scores make the renowned De Toren Z 2017 vintage the highest awarded vintage to date.
Such has been the demand for this superior wine that most of this reputable vintage’s production, limited-edition bottles have already found their place with eager oenophiles. There is however a small reserve still available since De Toren has finally released the last few cases for acquirement one last time. Lovers of fine wine and serious collectors alike should not hesitate to claim the last few remaining bottles. This wine will reward at nearest enjoyment and promises to be even more exceptional in time as it carries an aging potential of 18 years plus.
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar |
16% Cabernet Franc, 6% Petit Verdot, 54% Merlot, 12% Malbec, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring Potential | Drink from 2022 to 2036 |
Food Matches | This wine is a very versatile food pairing wine due to its great acidity and weight. It works exceptionally well with very fine spicy foods. Its aromass of mulberries and blueberries perfectly complements rich fish, lamb, duck, beef and poultry. |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2018 Beau Constantia 'Aidan'
Regular price £24.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
The 2018 Aidan is a character of serious substance. A dry vintage has sculpted a wine with incredible structure, boasting flavours that lean towards the darker spectrum of fruit. This blend is predominantly Shiraz, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Sauvignon, with some Malbec and Merlot used as well.
Nose
At first, aromas of blackcurrant and blackberries fill the nose, until a necessary swirl allows for spices such as star anise, five spice and mace to enter the conversation.
Palate
Olive tapenade and fresh leather hint in the distance, beautifully balanced by a serious salinity that pins this offering to its maritime environment, where the vines grow on steep slopes circled by the cold Atlantic Ocean.
The Year by Winemaker Megan van der Merwe
"The 2018 vintage will long be remembered for its coolness and low disease pressure. It will also be remembered as the first real vintage to feel the effects of the famous Cape Drought that started in 2015 and worsened towards 2018. Our yields were down by 10%, but with our buffering cool climate conditions, the quality of the vintage was superlative."
Winery
Some two decades ago, raging wildfires swept through an area of forest high up on Constantia Nek, leaving the slopes scorched and bare. When the fire had subsided, what was left was a brilliant and unique spot for planting a vineyard; 350 metres above sea level, with cooling ocean breezes and steep sun-bathed hills and so, like a phoenix, Beau Constantia rose from the ashes.
Sensing opportunity, Pierre and Cecily Du Preez acquired the 22-hectare property in 2002. With thorough soil analysis guiding their efforts, the inaugural vineyards were planted in 2003 under the careful guidance of farm manager, Japie Bronn.
The journey to establish vineyards on these challenging slopes demanded patience and unwavering commitment. Today, Beau Constantia proudly boasts 11.47 hectares under vine, a testament to the perseverance and dedication of all involved. Within these vineyards thrive a diverse range of varietals, including Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz, and Petit Verdot, each meticulously nurtured to capture the unique essence of this extraordinary landscape.
This boutique wine farm with just over 11 hectares under vine has utterly spectacular views over the peninsula. Megan van der Merwe is the Head Winemaker, having taken over from Justin Van Wyk in 2021, after serving as Assistant Winemaker during his successful tenure. Megan believes in 'farming to perfection - just don't stuff it up in the cellar!'. This very talented winemaker is certainly one to watch.
Each of their releases is a tribute to a member of the family.
Accolades & Awards
- 94pts | IWSC 2021
-
90pts | Tim Atkin
Aidan is an ambitious and – for Constantia – unusual four-way blend of mostly Syrah with 61% Petit Verdot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Dark, sinewy and concentrated, with lots of tannic backbone, damson and blackberry fruit and well-integrated 54% new oak. 2022-27
- 91pts | Platter’s
Syrah component raised to 39% in 2017, with petit verdot, cab & malbec, showing less muscle, more refinement than 2016 (4 stars, 89 pts). Delightful earthy notes with black cherries & cassis, plush ripe tannins. 20 months in barrel, 54% new.
Specifications
Year | 2018 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 32% Syrah, 28% Petit Verdot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Malbec and 7% Merlot. |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content | 14.5% abv |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units per bottle |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | 2022-2027 |
Food Matching | Enjoy with a rosemary-crusted roast rack of lamb with root vegetables and a rich, umami gravy and other rich, savoury slow cooked dishes. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Constantia |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |