Boschendal, 'Nicolas', 2023, Stellenbosch (WO)

'One-Liner'
A wonderfully elegant South African red, brimming with ripe cherries, dark berries and warming spice, with velvety tannins, subtle oak and a long, beautifully balanced finish.

Tasting Note
Deep ruby red in the glass, with expressive aromas of ripe cherries, fresh plums, mulberries and blackcurrants, complemented by hints of cedar, dark chocolate and warming spice. The palate is rich and wonderfully layered, bringing together juicy red and black fruits with delicate notes of tobacco, pencil shavings and a touch of smoky oak. Fine, polished tannins provide a lovely sense of structure, while vibrant acidity keeps the wine fresh and beautifully balanced. Elegant yet generous, with a smooth, velvety texture and impressive depth of flavour. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving lingering impressions of dark fruit, gentle spice and a subtle savoury richness.

Country: South Africa
Region: Stellenbosch WO
Sub-Region: Western Cape
Grape(s): 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, 29% Shiraz, 26% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec, 1% Petit Verdot
ABV: 13.5%
Friendly: n/a

Awards & Critics' Scores
Investec Trophy Wine Show 2026 – 96/100, Trophy for Best 'Other Red Blend'
Tim Atkin South Africa Special Report 2026 – 93/100
International Wine & Spirit Competition 2026 – Silver Medal

The Story
Few South African wine estates can claim a heritage quite as remarkable as Boschendal, whose story began in 1685 when French Huguenot Jean le Long established a farm in the magnificent valley between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. The estate subsequently passed through the hands of Nicolas de Lanoy, whose name lives on in this exceptional red blend, before becoming the home of the de Villiers family for more than a century. Today, Boschendal remains one of the Cape Winelands' most celebrated estates, combining over three centuries of winemaking heritage with a modern commitment to producing wines of exceptional character and elegance. 'Nicolas' is a particularly fine expression of this philosophy, bringing together six carefully selected grape varieties from elevated vineyards in the Helderberg, where cooling maritime influences and the varied vineyard exposures help develop ripe, concentrated fruit while preserving freshness and balance. Each variety is harvested and vinified separately, allowing its individual character to develop before the final blend is assembled. The wine then spends between 14 and 16 months maturing in French oak barrels, around 30% of which are new, developing additional complexity and gently softening its tannins. The result is a wonderfully harmonious red, with Cabernet Sauvignon providing structure, Shiraz adding spice and depth, and Merlot lending a softer, more generous fruit character. Equally enjoyable now or after a few years in the cellar, it is a fitting tribute to the remarkable history of one of South Africa's great wine estates.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Venison loin with blackberry, juniper and red wine sauce
- Vegetarian: Charred mushroom and black pepper pappardelle
- Vegan: Roast aubergine, lentil and tomato bake with herbs