Spier Frans K Smit Red 2017

The Spier Frans K Smit is the flagship red blend from Spier, often served at wine tastings and events by no one other than Frans Smit himself. This wine is around since 2008 in honour of this man who was (and still is) a major role player in the success of Spier and, to a great extent, the local wine industry. It is made in a left-bank Bordeaux style and a very serious wine that should be tried by all wine lovers at some point. This particular vintage is also one of the best vintages that they have had in a long time and, looking at the prices of other older vintages, this will probably be one of the best investments that you can make at the moment.

This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec. About 80% of the wine was matured in first fill French oak barrels and the remainder in 2nd fill barrels. In the glass, it has a deep garnet colour with a solid, hearty centre. It is forthcoming and fruity on the nose with complex notes of black fruit, violets and cigar box. The first impression on the palate is that this is still a youthful and powerful wine. On the palate, it displays blackcurrant, black cherries, scented oak, graphite, pencil shavings and peppermint crisp milk chocolate. The tannins are firm but contributing to a good balance. It has a long, complex finish with some minerality coming forward towards the end of its unfolding.

Although this wine can be enjoyed now, I would recommend to wait at least until 2027 before opening, although it will probably be best between 2030-2040. This wine will benefit from a slight chill and can be decanted if opened now. It will work exceptionally well with a ribeye steak and hearty vegetables, followed by a dark chocolate cake for dessert. This is a must-try for all red wine lovers, a wonderful experience to your taste buds and a great investment. It is value for money!

Producer: Spier

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon 61%, Merlot 25%, Cabernet Franc 7%, Malbec 7%

Vintage: 2017

Origin: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Winemaker: Frans Smit

Closure: Cork

Alcohol: 14.78%

RS: 3.3g/l

Average price: R1250

Rating: 96/100