Founded in 2000, Raats Family Wines was among the first South African producers to specialise in Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Founder and winemaker Bruwer Raats, a Cab Franc fan, planted vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills, where the decomposed granite soils at 300m-400m on Vlaeberg mountain, about 13km from False Bay, provide excellent cool conditions, allowing the variety to ripen with great acidity and lower alcohol. After fermentation in stainless steel tanks, the 2022 spent 18 months in 30% new French oak. Classy, refined. Aromas of blackberry, cedar, herbs and spices. The palate combines good fruit concentration with savoury complexity. Aromas of dried fig, plum and black cherry with hints of smoked beef, violet and tobacco leaves. Elegant, linear palate with good freshness. Classic. Lovely balance of cool savoury notes and ripe, focused fruit. Delicate grilled plum. A seamless, lingering style. Will age beautifully.
95 points, Decanter (Oct 2025)
The 2022 Cabernet Franc Family Reserve comes from higher vines at around 250 to 275 meters in altitude that tend to gain more concentration. Aged for 18 months in 25% new French oak, this has an understated bouquet, with sous-bois and light herbaceous notes infusing scents of red fruit—lovely delineation and transparency. The palate is medium-bodied with a smooth texture. A dash of black pepper infuses the black fruit flavors as hints of clove and tobacco surface on the finish. Very fine and very classy.
93 points, Neal Martin, Vinous (Sep 2024)
Licorice, orange rind, pomegranates, violets and manuka honey on the nose, plus a dusting of grated nutmeg. It’s medium-bodied with floral and zesty freshness. Chalky tannins spread across the palate. Drink or hold.
93 points, Claire Nesbitt, James Suckling (Oct 2025)
Top Quality Store
