Grape expectations
MATCHES MADE IN HEAVEN
It’s bold. It’s rich. It’s luxurious. Rightly beloved for being a silky, full-bodied wine that’s easily recognised by its burgundy hue and delightful flavours, Cabernet Sauvignon is a wonderful food wine thanks to its phenomenal flavour and high tannin content which pairs well with countless dishes.
GRILLED OR ROAST MEATS
Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with beef, lamb and game meats that have been grilled or roasted because the richness of the meat is cut through by the tannins found in the wine, while the fruit flavours enhance the taste of the meat.
PASTAS WITH TOMATO-BASED SAUCES
If you’re whipping up spaghetti bolognaise or lasagne, you can complement this meal with a glass of Cabernet Sauvignon because the acidity in the wine pairs well with the tomatoes and the tannins cuts through the rich meat flavours.ernet
CHEESE PLATTERS
Wine and cheese are a match made in heaven, and the best options for Cabernet Sauvignon are semi-hard, aged varieties like cheddar, gouda, and gruyère. These cheeses have a high enough fat content to balance the tannins in the wine, while their aging brings out the wine’s fruity notes. A stronger blue cheese like Roquefort has is tangy, salty and intense, making it another ideal match for a more intense wine.
SWEET TREATS
Cabernet Sauvignon can be paired with various after dinner sugar rushes, especially those using dark chocolate since the wine’s robust tannins and fruit notes will complement the chocolate’s bitterness. Dark chocolate tarts, mousse, and cakes are good choices, while other options include berry pies and desserts with a balance of sweetness and acidity.
AGEING LIKE A FINE WINE
As high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon gets older, it evolves into an even more complex and dynamic wine. When young, Cabernet Sauvignons boast ripe fruit and hints of oak like vanilla and cedar, not to mention the grippy tannins that make them so great with a juicy steak. As they age, those fruit flavours mellow out and allow for secondary flavours to be exposed. Grippy tannins will begin to dissipate, and the wine will take on an entirely different expression, making a good Cab Sav the ultimate wine to add to the menu.
SET THE SCENE
The Stellenbosch-born Stellenzicht Cabernet Sauvignon commands attention.
Its aromatic profile of cassis and blue fruit, underscored by cedar and pencil lead notes, speaks to meticulous craftsmanship – hand-harvested grapes matured for 18 months in French oak. True hospitality isn’t merely about serving exceptional food and wine – it is about creating moments where everything comes together perfectly.
With its well-balanced tannins, ruby red allure, and lingering finish, this Cabernet Sauvignon is an invisible orchestrator of atmosphere. Place it centre stage at your next gathering and watch as conversation deepens, and connections grow.
