Tokara Directors Reserve Red 2021

Tokara is situated on the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain near the Helshoogte Pass in Stellenbosch. Its vineyards benefit from the region’s varied elevations, soils and growing conditions, which help Cabernet Sauvignon and its traditional Bordeaux blending partners develop concentrated fruit, structure and freshness.
Tokara Director’s Reserve Red 2021 is a carefully assembled blend made from selected parcels of the estate’s premium vineyards. Cabernet Sauvignon provides the backbone, while Petit Verdot contributes structure and spice, Merlot adds a softer fruit dimension, and Cabernet Franc and Malbec bring further complexity.
The wine matured for 22 months in French oak barrels, 47% of which were new. Bottled without fining or filtration, it combines the depth expected of a Stellenbosch red blend with a more restrained, polished approach to oak and tannin. The emphasis is on elegance, detail and longevity rather than sheer weight.

Colour: Vibrant crimson with a deep, almost opaque centre and a ruby-red rim.
Nose: Complex aromas of black cherry, cassis and dried blackcurrants lead, followed by fragrant violets, tobacco leaf and graphite. With time in the glass, notes of cedar, pencil shavings, mint and subtle vanilla spice emerge from the French oak. 
Palate: Full-bodied and concentrated, with layers of blackberry, dark cherry and plum supported by savoury spice and a touch of cocoa. The Cabernet Sauvignon provides a firm backbone, while the other Bordeaux varieties add depth and complexity. Fine but dense tannins give the wine structure, balanced by fresh acidity and a focused, dry finish. Despite its richness, the wine retains an elegant, composed character.
Finish: Long and persistent, with lingering cassis, dark fruit, cedar and savoury spice. The firm, finely textured tannins suggest further development in the bottle.