Raats Dolomite Cabernet Franc 2022 vs Smalltown Vineyards The Black Craft Shiraz Barossa Valley 2023
Compare current tracked prices, stockists and core specifications.
| Availability | In stock | In stock |
|---|---|---|
| Best current price | £16.99 | £16.99 |
| Current stockists | 1 merchant | 1 merchant |
| Producer | — | Smalltown Vineyards |
| Style | Red | Red |
| Grape | Cabernet Franc | Shiraz |
| Region | Stellenbosch | Barossa |
| Country | South Africa | — |
| Size | 750ml | 750ml |
| Where to buy |
Raats Dolomite Cabernet Franc 2022
Raats Dolomite Cabernet Franc is a vibrant, elegant and deeply characterful red from the granitic Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch, one of South Africa's most exciting terroirs for the variety. Crafted by Bruwer Raats, widely regarded as one of the Cape's most gifted winemakers, this is Cabernet Franc of real purity, minerality and finesse. Why You'll Love It Founded in 2000, Raats Family Wines has built its reputation on a singular focus: excellence through specialisation in Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Bruwer Raats identified the unique potential of the decomposed dolomite granite soils in Polkadraai Hills early on, and the Dolomite Cabernet Franc is the expression of that vision. Regarded as one of the finest examples of the variety in the southern hemisphere, this is a wine that rewards those who appreciate elegance, complexity and a genuine sense of place. Vineyard & Production Sourced exclusively from vineyards planted on decomposed dolomite granite soils in Polkadraai Hills, Stellenbosch, which impart freshness, vibrant acidity and a distinct mineral character. Grapes are hand-harvested in February at optimal ripeness and triple hand-sorted before crushing. A five-day cold soak on skins precedes fermentation at 28 degrees, followed by basket pressing and malolactic fermentation in stainless steel. The wine is then aged for 14 months in French 300-litre barrels with no new oak, preserving purity and elegance. Tasting Notes Dark and red cherry aromas layered with spice and herbaceous notes. The palate shows dark berries, graphite and a hint of wet-stone minerality, leading to a soft, velvet finish. Floral and approachable, yet balanced and complex with real depth. Perfect Pairings A natural partner for game birds in red wine sauce, beef fillet and pork loin. Also excellent with duck breast, mushroom-based dishes and aged hard cheeses. Grape Variety Cabernet Franc 100%
Smalltown Vineyards The Black Craft Shiraz Barossa Valley 2023
From the historic soils of the Barossa Valley comes Smalltown Vineyards The Black Craft Shiraz, a wine steeped in history and craftsmanship. The name pays homage to both the German immigrants who first planted Shiraz in Barossa in the 1850s and the ancient art of letterpress printing, known as the “Black Craft” for its inky, mysterious allure. This Shiraz captures that same sense of depth and intensity, blending tradition with bold expression. Sourced from the premium Northern Barossa Valley—primarily Greenock, Western Ridge, and Ebenezer—the wine is crafted with generous whole berries in open fermenters, aged 11 months in a mix of American and French oak (around 35% new) to create a dark, rich, and complex Barossa Shiraz that balances savoury power with elegance. Meet the producer Smalltown Vineyards express many of the Barossa’s prized districts from Gomersal, Kalimna, and the Eden Valley, producing wines that reflect the region’s diverse terroir and heritage. Production Sourced from the finest vineyard sites in the Northern Barossa, the Shiraz is open-fermented with a portion of whole berries to preserve fruit integrity and soft tannins. The wine is matured for 11 months in a variety of American and French oak barrels, including new and seasoned, all AP John coopered in Barossa. Tasting notes A compelling, dark, and chocolaty Barossa Shiraz. Rich blackberry compote, black pepper, and iron-rich, beefy notes dominate the palate, complemented by balanced acidity and a touch of cocoa powder on the long finish. No sweetness—this is serious, grown-up Shiraz. Food match As the name suggests, “black” is key—chargrilled meats, barbecue, or dishes cooked on a griddle pan are perfect companions. Grape Shiraz 100%
Prices and availability reflect the latest tracked merchant checks and may change before checkout.