Petrus Vatilifa
One advantage about the taste buds is that they will never lie to you.
Their ability to identify quality is beyond our comprehension. Thanks to them, this week we have Anthonij Rupert Optima Cabernet Franc on the feature. Anthonij Rupert Wyne originated from the farm L’Ormarins in Franschhoek, South Africa.
It is on this farm where the Optima Cabernet Franc is being crafted to date.
Most wines share a common ground, where they intersect – and distinguishing between them requires a great wine connoisseur.
With Optima Cabernet Franc, even novices will be able to recognise the high quality of this wine. It’s fresh on the palate with flavours of blackberry and currant. It has a strong component of merlot and cabernet sauvignon, possibly because it is made from the parent grape of the two blends.
On the nose, it’s quite fruity, with hints of vanilla and cocoa, the kind that will make you close your eyes briefly as you inhale the ripe aromas oak and cocoa.
Though many people believe dry red wines are bitter and harsh on the palate, this Cabernet Franc proves otherwise.
It has a velvety mouth feel and a soft structure that leaves a subtle after taste. It’s one of a kind in that it dances around, instead of biting the tongue.
When it comes to food pairing, the Optima Cabernet Franc goes well with almost everything.
Beef, lamb, game, mutton, and poultry are all options. It is available in most local liquor stores. Given its high quality, it is reasonably priced.
However, due to the variety of Optima varietals, it is important to carefully read the labels, as some blends may cost slightly more than cabernet franc.
* Petrus Vatilifa is part of the Windhoek Wine Club