Lievland Cabernet Sauvignon – Out of this World • Reverse Wine Snob®

Almost too good to be true, the Lievland Cabernet Sauvignon.

86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Cinsault and 6% Shiraz from a blend of Paarl and Stellenbosch vineyards in the Coastal Region of South Africa. The wine was aged in 225L and 300L French oak barrels for 13 months and has just 2.1 g/L of residual sugar.

Sample submitted for review. The Lievland Cabernet Sauvignon has an SRP of $19 and is available for as low as $16. Only 978 cases produced. Imported by Vineyard Brands.

From the bottle:

Lievland directly translated means “Love Land.” Ever since owners Jose and Tyrrel set foot on this farm, they were in love with the land for more than its bucolic charm. Twenty years ago, these soils were considered amongst the Cape’s top vineyards and it remains our ultimate goal to resurrect its ultimate potential.

The story behind the label is of “Bokkie,” South Afrtica’s national animal who was adopted by two horses on the farm, becoming inseparable. This unique love story inspired our label, Cupid riding a Springbok. This wine is from a combination of high-altitude cool-climate vineyards giving bright fruit and structure with dryland vineyards from warmer areas giving riper fruit and richness. The result is an elegant, nuanced style.

14% Alcohol

The 2017 Lievland Cabernet Sauvignon begins with very pleasing aromas of dark berry fruit, almost bordering on raisins and prunes, along with touches of cedar and vanilla. Tasting the wine reveals excellent intense, deep, dark fruit flavors. Smooth with nice touches of baking spice and tobacco, the juicy fruit is a bit on the raisiny side just like the nose. Dry, grippy tannins lead into the long, lasting finish.

This is great stuff, just like the Pinotage we reviewed from this label a few weeks ago.

Ready to buy? See a listing of local retailers here.