De Trafford Elevation 2013
Blend:Red
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De Trafford Elevation 2013
De Trafford Wines is a small, family-run estate situated high on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountains in Stellenbosch, on the Mont Fleur farm at around 393 metres above sea level. The vineyards sit on steep, north-facing slopes with decomposed granite soils and clay content that retain enough moisture to sustain vines through the dry Cape summers while still providing excellent drainage.
Founded by architect David Trafford and his wife Rita, the estate has focused since the early 1990s on producing small volumes of age-worthy red wines that reflect site rather than formula. Only a handful of hectares are planted, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah and Cabernet Franc carefully matched to different sections of the slope.
The De Trafford Elevation 2013 is the estate’s flagship blend, made from the best parcels and barrels from this single vineyard. Cabernet Sauvignon usually forms the backbone, supported by Merlot for richness, Syrah for spice and Cabernet Franc for aromatic lift. The wine is matured extensively in oak and released only after significant bottle ageing to allow the components to integrate and develop complexity.
Colour:
Deep garnet with a dense ruby core, showing concentration and maturity beginning to develop at the rim.
Nose:
A layered aromatic profile of cassis, blackberry and dark plum leads, followed by cedar, graphite and subtle fynbos. As the wine opens, hints of dried herbs, tobacco leaf and spice emerge, reflecting both the blend and extended maturation.
Palate:
Full-bodied yet composed, with dark berry fruit supported by firm but polished tannins. Cabernet Sauvignon provides structure and depth, while Merlot adds roundness and Syrah contributes savoury spice. Fresh acidity keeps the wine focused, giving it a sense of balance rather than weight.
Finish:
Long and structured, finishing with blackcurrant, subtle oak spice and a lingering mineral edge typical of Stellenbosch mountain vineyards.
- Food Pairing : The structure and savoury complexity of De Trafford Elevation 2013 make it an excellent partner for rich, slow-cooked dishes. It pairs beautifully with roast beef or a classic Sunday lamb roast, where the wine’s tannins cut through the richness of the meat. Braised venison or game dishes also work particularly well, as the dark fruit and herbal notes echo the earthy flavours. For something slightly lighter, try it with grilled ribeye steak or mushroom-based dishes such as wild mushroom risotto - the wine’s depth and savoury character complement both meat and umami-driven flavours.
- Drink before: Cellaring potential: 15–20 years from vintage.
- Vintage: 2013
- Manufacturer: De Trafford
- Region: Stellenbosch
- Medals Won: Platter's South African Wine Guide (2020 Edition): Awarded a prestigious 5 Star rating (defined as 95 points or higher). Tim Atkin MW: Scored 93 points in his South African Special Report.
- Grapes used to make this wine were grown in: Decomposed granite soils with clay content.
- Sugar Content: 2g/L
- Alcohol Content: 14.5%
Stock and Delivery:
In Stock: Standard delivery within 5 days
Stock at supplier: Delivery within 10 - 15 days
R99 Nationwide
Free Delivery: On orders over R2 000
Our Guarantee:
We guarantee a full credit on the cost of the wine, no questions asked, and we will also collect the remainder of any pack and refund you in full if you are unhappy with the quality, the service or any aspect of Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Replacements:
In the unlikely event that there is a broken bottle in your case, please tell us immediately and we will credit your account. We reserve the right to substitute product if stock runs out, to the same or higher value of the stock.
Please note:
These figures are subject to change.