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MR founders Bruwer Raats and Mzokhona Mvemve are best of friends as well as winemakers that have already achieved individual success. Raats has done so with his Raats Family label and Mvemve with his Sagila range. Both have worked together previously too, with Raats a consultant to Indaba wines while Mvemve was winemaker there. While Bruwer is perhaps more outspoken and enigmatic, Mvemve has a calm and reflective nature. In 2005 they brought their collective talents together to produce a wine “unapologetic of its origins and proud of its palate.”
The wine is the MR de Compostella 2004, a seductively smooth yet full-flavoured blend of the traditional red Bordeaux varietals, though dominated by Cabernet Franc. Bruwer has carved a reputation as an expert in this varietal through his Raats Family Cabernet Franc. His knowledge of where to source the best available fruit clearly shows in this blend. The winemaking pair blind-tasted wine made from several choice vineyards and selected the best for the final blend of Cabernet Franc (33%), Petit Verdot (18%), Malbec (17%), Merlot (16%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (16%).
The name refers to a constellation of stars, which perhaps provides some indication to the high expectations both Mvemve and Raats have for de Compostella. Their efforts have already met with significant acclaim. James Molesworth of Wine Spectator called it his “best South African red” after a recent visit in April, quite a feat for a maiden release.
Collectors and top restaurants quickly bought out the barely 200 cases that were produced, despite the rather hefty price tag. And quite justifiably, when one considers how highly this vintage has been touted. All the signs suggest that de Compostella will soon become a modern icon for South African wine.
Jean’s Thoughts
It is about time that South African Wine Makers produce high world ranking wines. Bruwer and Mzokhona joined the short list.
This wine has a huge aging potential, as a true Bordeaux character. Very elegant, great value for money in the price range.
Brendon’s Thoughts
Magnificent, it’s just plain beautiful. This wine is about how it makes you feel when you are drinking it, it’s an experience that makes you sit back and think, this is what life should be about. I love it.
At Caveau: Please enquire for availability.
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