Cabernet Sauvignon from South Africa

Welcome to the world of South African Cabernet Sauvignon! Discover our huge selection of over 130 wines, from everyday heroes to iconic bottles.

Wine guide

Cabernet Sauvignon: The King from the Cape

Cabernet Sauvignon, the undisputed king of red grapes, has found a second home in South Africa. Its ability to reflect its terroir produces world-class wines at the Cape. With around 140 different wines from over 40 wineries, including top names like Lynx, Holden Manz, or Leopards Leap, we offer you an unparalleled variety. Whether you're looking for a powerful single varietal or an elegant blend – you'll find it here.

Style and Grape Varieties: Power Meets Elegance

South African Cabernet Sauvignon captivates with its typical aroma profile of blackcurrant (cassis), dark cherries, cedarwood, and often a hint of mint or eucalyptus. The wines are known for their firm tannin structure and excellent aging potential. Many winemakers vinify it as a single varietal to showcase its full power. Equally popular are the 'Bordeaux blends,' where it combines with Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec to create complex and harmonious cuvées. These wines combine the structure of Cabernet with the fruitiness and softness of its partners.

Regions: The Heart in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

The undisputed strongholds for Cabernet Sauvignon are Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The diverse soils and the warm, yet sea-breeze-cooled climate in Stellenbosch produce some of the country's most powerful and long-lived Cabs. Franschhoek, with its slightly warmer climate, yields wines that are often a bit more opulent and approachable in their youth. Outstanding examples also come from regions like Paarl and Constantia, proving the diversity of this noble grape at the Cape.

Food Pairing: The Perfect Partner for Hearty Dishes

With its structure and intense aromas, Cabernet Sauvignon is the ideal companion for robust dishes. A grilled beef steak, rack of lamb with herbs, a hearty pot roast, or game dishes harmonize perfectly. A good Cabernet Sauvignon is also an excellent choice with a platter of aged hard cheeses like Cheddar or Parmesan.

For Every Occasion and Budget

Our selection covers the entire spectrum. You'll find uncomplicated, fruit-forward Cabernet Sauvignons for under €10 that are perfect for everyday enjoyment. The majority are in the mid-price range up to about €30, where you can already find complex wines with aging potential. For special moments and for the wine cellar, we also carry iconic wines from top estates that can cost up to €200 and promise a long life.

Frequently asked questions

What does Cabernet Sauvignon from South Africa taste like?

Typically, it has intense aromas of dark fruits like blackcurrant and cherry, often complemented by notes of cedar, tobacco, and sometimes mint. It possesses a firm tannin structure and a full body.

What food pairs with South African Cabernet Sauvignon?

It's the ideal partner for hearty meat dishes like grilled steak, lamb, game, or pot roasts. It also pairs wonderfully with flavourful, aged hard cheeses.

Where is the best Cabernet Sauvignon grown in South Africa?

The most famous and renowned regions for high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon are Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. These areas produce particularly structured and long-lived wines.

Can these wines be cellared for a long time?

Yes, many South African Cabernet Sauvignons, especially from the top sites in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, have excellent aging potential. High-quality wines can easily mature for 10 years or more in the cellar, developing additional complexity.

How does shipping work at The WineStore?

We deliver quickly and reliably. To Germany, shipping costs €6.90 (free from €120) and takes 1-3 working days. To the EU, it costs €6.90–€11.90 depending on the country (free from €150) and takes 2-5 working days. We also ship to the UK, Switzerland, and other countries.