From the oldest Cabernet vineyard in the Hemel-en-Aarde, planted in 1998, comes the most unique Cabernet Sauvignon in South Africa. 2021 was an amazing vintage for the Restless River Main Road & Dignity. 

Hand harvested, destemmed, 30% whole berry. Fermented in open-top oak fermenters, spontaneous fermentations with a combination of gentle pump-overs and short punchdowns. No additives, no cooling. Extended maceration. Lightly basket-pressed. Aged 23 months in 225L barrels, 30% new, followed by three months in stainless steel tank, then bottle aged a further 21 months. Total time aged before release; four years. 

Tasting Notes: Deep, dark aromatics open to cool-climate Cabernet notes of violets, blossoms, sandalwood, cedar spice, cherries, and cassis, with subtle hints of olive, graphite, bay leaf, and herbal tea. The palate is silky and vibrant, balanced by tangy acidity and fine tannins. With time, tart cherry, herbal nuances, cola, and blueberry candy emerge. A refined Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Cabernet, the 2021 vintage will shine further.

Four different clones, planted on three different sites, make up the blend of this celebrated cool climate Cabernet Sauvignon that's just notched up its twentieth vintage. Curated for two years in 30% new oak, it has graphite and fynbos, damson and blackcurrant flavours, sturdy tannins and a palate that flirts with but avoids greenness. Sui generis. 2025-32. Tim Atkin 94

ANALYSIS: ALC 14.1% | TA 5.9g/L | pH 3.58 | RS 1.6g/L