Reviews & Ratings

2013 De Toren South African (Red Blend) "Z"

Winery: De Toren

Vintage: 2013

Wine Name/Vineyard: "Z"

Wine Category: South African (Red Blend)

Grape blend: 42% Merlot, 21% Malbec, 16% Cabernet Franc, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon & 9% Petit Verdot

Bottle size: 750 ml

Region: Stellenbosch

State or country: South Africa

Price: $50

Cases produced: 4,500

KWG Score: 90.6 (based on 3 reviews)

Ken's Wine Rating: Very Good+ (90)

Review date: April 5, 2017

Wine Review: This very black ink colored blend from South Africa opens with a wet stone, graphite and fig bouquet. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic and juicy. The flavor profile is a mineral infused old oak, black plum and beef jerky blend. I also detected some hints of black olive. The finish is dry with medium tannins. I would pair this very nice wine with beef brisket. Enjoy - Ken

Winemaker Notes: This "Right Bank-styled" Bordeaux blend debuted in the 2004 vintage as a complement to De Toren's legendary "Left Bank-styled" Fusion V. A higher proportion of Merlot makes this delicious red softer and more approachable in its youth than its blockbuster sibling. Vibrant aromas and flavors of plum, dark berries, black currant and spice combine with classic notes of tobacco and graphite with a hint of vanilla. A clean, balanced acidity integrates with mouth coating tannins that contribute to a long, sophisticated finish.

Buy it: Use 1000 Corks to find stores that sell De Toren 2013 Z.