Reyneke 'Capstone' Stellenbosch Blend 2019

Winemaking

Reyneke is driven by a commitment to sustainable, organic viticulture paired with thoughtful winemaking that lets the vineyard speak. The estate emphasizes minimal intervention in the cellar, allowing the naturally expressive character of Stellenbosch fruit to develop with clarity and structure. This philosophy shows itself in wines that feel alive and balanced rather than over-extracted or heavily manipulated.

Tasting Notes

Capstone opens with an inviting bouquet of dark berries and cassis, underscored by graphite minerality and a whisper of tobacco leaf. On the palate, you'll find a refined framework of structured tannins supporting flavors of plum and blackcurrant, with hints of cedar and a subtle mineral spine running throughout. The finish is long and sophisticated, with lingering notes of dark fruit and warming spice that encourages another sip.

Producer

Reyneke is a pioneering organic estate in Stellenbosch, built on the conviction that sustainable farming and quality winemaking are inseparable. The winery has earned recognition for its consistent expression of site-driven character while maintaining strict environmental stewardship across its vineyards. Capstone, their flagship Bordeaux blend, represents the best of what the estate achieves through this balanced approach.

Terroir

Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's most prestigious wine regions, sits in the Western Cape where Atlantic and Indian Ocean influences moderate the climate. The area's diverse soils—ranging from granite-derived slopes to deeper clay and shale compositions—create the mineral complexity you'll taste in Capstone. This vintage benefits from Stellenbosch's warm, dry growing season and the region's ability to produce Bordeaux varieties with both richness and elegance.

Food Pairings

This wine shines alongside herb-crusted lamb chops with a red wine reduction, where its structured tannins and dark fruit notes play beautifully with the meat's richness. Try it with a casual but satisfying beef and mushroom stew, or pan-seared duck breast with cherry gastrique—the mineral undertone and cedar notes complement both the umami depth and slight sweetness. It's equally at home with a well-aged cheddar and charcuterie board.