Jordan The Long Fuse Cabernet Sauvignon 2022

Jordan Wine Estate, run by Gary and Kathy Jordan, has farmed the slopes and soils of Stellenbosch in South Africa's Coastal Region since 1970. The Long Fuse is their Cabernet Sauvignon, drawn from vineyards across the estate's range of aspects, where the maritime influence off False Bay brings cooling afternoon breezes that slow ripening and keep the fruit fresh. Stellenbosch's decomposed granite and shale soils give Cabernet firm structure and a savoury edge, while the warm Cape sun ensures full ripeness in the tannins. The wine spends 18 months in French oak barrels, where slow oxygen exchange softens the tannins and adds cedar, spice and a fine grained polish. In the glass it is deep, almost opaque, with a nose of blackcurrant, plum and red currant lifted by cedar, tobacco and cocoa. The palate is full bodied and structured, with ripe but firm tannin, a savoury core and a long finish carrying dark fruit and a hint of vanilla. This is a classically styled Cabernet built for the table and for several years in the cellar. Serve at 16 to 18 degrees, decanted an hour ahead. It is a natural partner for grilled red meat.