Glen Carlou Gran Classique 2022 14% abv 75cl

Glen Carlou is one of South Africa’s most respected premium wineries, situated on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountains in Paarl. Founded in 1985, the estate quickly gained international recognition for its elegant Chardonnay and Bordeaux-inspired reds. Today, Glen Carlou combines modern cellar technology with meticulous vineyard management to produce wines that balance richness, structure, and finesse.

The Grand Classique is the estate’s flagship Bordeaux-style blend, traditionally combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Malbec. The 2022 vintage benefited from moderate conditions and cooler evenings in Paarl, allowing slow ripening and excellent flavour concentration while retaining freshness and balance. Each variety was vinified separately in stainless steel before maturation in French oak barrels for around 18 months. Careful blending and extended ageing produced a wine of depth, polish, and ageing potential.

In the glass, Glen Carlou Grand Classique 2022 shows a deep ruby colour with expressive aromas of blackcurrant, plum, blackberry, and dark cherry layered with cedar, tobacco, graphite, and sweet spice. The palate is full-bodied yet refined, with velvety tannins, concentrated dark fruit, and beautifully integrated oak. Notes of cocoa, pencil shavings, and subtle herbs lead into a long, elegant finish marked by freshness and complexity.

This sophisticated South African red pairs beautifully with ribeye steak, roast lamb, venison, slow-cooked beef, or mature hard cheeses. It will reward decanting in its youth and has the structure to cellar gracefully for a decade or more.