Opstal ‘Carl Everson’ Cape Blend 2020

Opstal ‘Carl Everson’ Cape Blend 2020

Winemaking

As Opstal’s flagship red, the Cape Blend is made from carefully selected parcels on the Slanghoek farm and built around Pinotage, supported by classic Bordelais varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsaut in smaller proportions. Grapes are picked at optimal phenolic ripeness, destemmed, and fermented in tank with regular pump-overs to extract colour, flavour, and fine tannins before being pressed to barrel. The components are then matured predominantly in older French oak (with a smaller portion of new wood where needed for structure and complexity) for over 18 months before blending and bottling, with the aim of achieving depth, balance, and a clear expression of Breedekloof terroir.

Tasting Notes

The 2020 Opstal ‘Carl Everson’ Cape Blend typically shows a dark, vibrant colour and an inviting nose of blackcurrant, cherry, mulberry, and plums lifted by hints of spice and dried herbs. On the palate it is full-bodied but poised, with juicy dark fruit at the core supported by well-judged oak, notes of cocoa and subtle tobacco, and a touch of earthy savouriness. The tannins are fine but present, giving structure without harshness, while fresh acidity keeps the wine energetic and food-friendly. The finish is long and satisfying, echoing ripe fruit, spice, and a gentle savoury grip, suggesting excellent mid-term cellaring potential.

Analysis

Alcohol: 13.5 %
Residual Sugar: 2.9 g/l
Total Acidity: 5.4 g/l
pH: 3.6
Wine of Origin: Breedekloof

Special Note

The Cabernet Sauvignon component of this blend was in new oak, but the other varieties were in 3rd, 4th and even older fill barrels – all 300L French oak and for a period of 18 months. After bottling the wine spends another 8 months in the bottle before being released onto the market. In the Carl Everson Range we aim for complexity, balance and elegance. So, we don’t want to overpower the wine drinker with too much oak extraction and rather let the fruit be captain of the ship through plenty drinkability