Clocking in with 69% Cabernet Sauvignon and splashes of Merlot and Cabernet Franc, the 2020 Paul Sauer begins with aromas of dusty red fruit, blackberry compote, cedar and juicy tobacco with plenty of attractive oak. Medium-bodied and with 13.5% alcohol, the palate is firm, fresh and layered with turned earth, pencil lead and oak spices before displaying a balanced structure with firm gripping tannins that will need another year or two in the bottle to settle. Just over 40,000 bottles were produced after the wine rested in 100% new French oak for about two years. Anthony Mueller, Robert Parker Wine Advocate

The 2020 Paul Sauer is fermented in open-top fermenters at 29° Celsius and matured for 24 months in 100% new French Nevers barrels. The fragrant bouquet has blackberry, blueberry, inkwell and mint, generous and well-defined. You cannot tell that it is matured entirely in new wood. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins and fine acidity. It’s quite a "juicy" Paul Sauer that belies the structure behind it. There’s fine grip and a touch of black pepper toward the finish. Plus, at 13.2° alcohol, it is a little sleeker than recent vintages. Excellent. Neal Martin, Vinous

Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa

Grape Varietal: 75% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Cabernet Franc, 11% Merlot

Critic Rating: Robert Parker Wine Advocate 94+ Points, Vinous 94 Points

Suggested Drink Window: 2025 - 2042