Longridge Cabernet Franc, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Longridge Wine Estate, located on the fertile slopes of the Helderberg in Stellenbosch, South Africa, is a benchmark for eco-friendly wine production. Under the guidance of Jasper Raats, a winemaker with an international pedigree, the estate embraces sustainable and biodynamic viticulture, producing wines that express both a sense of place and a respect for the land. The 2019 Longridge Cabernet Franc is a fine example of this philosophy, crafted naturally, with minimal intervention, to capture the purity and character of its unique terroir.

Product Details:

• Variety: 100% Cabernet Franc
• Soil: Deep fine granite Tukulu
• ABV: 13.8%
• Winemaker: Jasper Raats

Sensory Description:

This wine reveals layered aromas of ripe red berries intertwined with delicate hints of spice, earth, and subtle oak. The influence of the cool Atlantic breezes and Tukulu soils shapes a palate of elegance and structure, where plush berry fruit meets gentle herbal undertones. Fine-grained tannins and a velvety texture lead to a graceful, lingering finish, underlining its thoughtful maturation for 23 months in new French oak.

Winemaker's Background:

Longridge Wine Estate champions a holistic approach to winemaking, guided by biodynamic principles and a commitment to environmental stewardship. Every stage, from hand-sorting grapes to wild yeast fermentation, is handled with care and precision, avoiding commercial yeasts, enzymes, or filtration. Their focus on solar energy, minimal intervention, and carbon reduction reflects a vision of sustainability that extends beyond the vineyard and into the wider community.

Serving Suggestions:

The 2019 Longridge Cabernet Franc is an excellent partner for grilled vegetables, roasted lamb, mushroom risotto, or a classic ratatouille. Its combination of fruit vibrancy and savory nuance makes it equally enjoyable with robust meat dishes or refined vegetarian fare. Serve at 16–18°C (60–65°F) to best showcase its aromatic complexity and textural elegance.

The 2019 Longridge Cabernet Franc embodies the harmony between nature and craftsmanship, an eloquent reflection of Stellenbosch’s terroir and a shining example of sustainable winemaking at its finest.