2021 Damascene Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa

ABOUT THE WINE
The 2021 Damascene Cabernet Sauvignon is a masterful expression drawn from high-altitude vineyards across Stellenbosch's most expressive subzones — including Bottelary, Polkadraai Hills, and Helderberg. These cooler, wind-swept slopes contribute to the wine’s lifted aromatics, fresh acid profile, and complex structure.
Meticulously farmed, the vineyards follow sustainable practices with some biodynamic principles, emphasizing soil health and canopy balance. Grapes are hand-harvested and sorted, then vinified using spontaneous fermentation in small tanks. The wine is aged for approximately 18 months in a mix of new and seasoned French oak (with a restrained use of new barrels to preserve purity), resulting in a wine that is both powerful and poised.
Its elegant structure and vibrant fruit pair well with dishes like rosemary-crusted lamb, aged ribeye, roasted root vegetables, or black truffle risotto.

ABOUT THE PRODUCER
Damascene Wines is the collaborative vision of winemaker Jean Smit and viticulturist David Curl, born from a desire to express South Africa’s diverse terroirs with precision and authenticity. Founded in 2017, the label focuses on single-origin wines from exceptional vineyard sites across the Cape — capturing the soul of place with minimal intervention and absolute respect for nature.
In Stellenbosch, their work with Cabernet Sauvignon is particularly compelling, showcasing the variety’s finesse over raw power. All farming is guided by sustainable principles, with handcraft at every stage — from vineyard to bottle. Damascene stands at the frontier of modern South African fine wine, merging site expression with intellectual depth and aesthetic clarity.