2024 La Motte Collector's Edition Cabernet Franc

This Cabernet Franc reflects the terroir and character of its Helderberg origin and its coastal granite‑and‑shale soils. With only 2,460 bottles produced, this vintage is a rare expression of place and season. Despite a dramatic winter of storms, the vineyards flourished in the hot, dry summer, yielding a wine of exceptional depth and elegance. Expect vibrant aromas, a refined structure, and the subtle influence of second-fill French oak barrels in which it matured for 18 months. Often used in premium red blends, the exceptional 2024 vintage delivered a Cabernet Franc which deserved to be bottled as a single variety. Deep in colour and generous with intensity, it shows all the typical varietal aromas of blackberries, green olives, nutmeg, ripe plums, violets and a hint of mint. Initially juicy and mouth-filling, the palate reveals characteristic and prominent tannins, developing into a balanced finish that follows on the nose and lingers with persistence. This wine’s presence will continue to mature and develop for many years to come. Cabernet Franc in this style adores red meat. It has a particular affinity for lamb, while its bold tannins turn smooth and supple in the presence of a succulent steak. Its versatility extends to hearty casseroles such as boeuf bourguignon and oxtail as well as lighter options - roasted or fried poultry, savoury mince dishes such as cottage pie, gammon steak and charcuterie. For cheese, reach for a harder cow's milk variety, such as Gruyère or matured Gouda.