The 2020 Cabernet Franc Family comes from vines in the Skoonheid vineyard just up from Raat's house, undergoing a 30% whole bunch ferment to enhance its purity. This has a more opulent nose, far more fruit-forward than the Dolomite with layers of dark cherry, boysenberry and dried violet petal notes. The palate is medium-bodied with fine grain tannins, an unerring sense of symmetry with great precision on the finish. Top class.
95 points, Neal Martin, Vinous (Sep 2022)
Opening with a voluminous nose of dark red fruits and layers of spicy pepper essences, the 2020 Family Cabernet Franc offers notes of sweet roasted red peppers and clove in the glass. Medium-bodied, it bursts with a dark cherry expression laced with notions of spiced plums before lively and complex herbal essences wade across the mid-palate with layers of complexity and juicy fruit essences. The wine is structured, balanced and complex, leaving me wanting a second and third sip. If you enjoy Cabernet Franc, you'll want to put this on your list. Only 8,700 bottles were produced after resting a year and a half in 25% new French oak barrels. Nicely done!
93 points, Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate (Dec 2023)
Complex and perfumed nose of cloves, anise, fresh strawberries, mulberries and chopped chives. Medium-bodied, fine and beautifully framed, with firm and ultra-fine tannins. All about freshness and precision. Drink or hold.
93 points, James Suckling (Dec 2023)
Opens up quite beautifully in the glass with classy red and black berries infused with graphite. Lovey fluidity and freshness with good inky depth. Oak evident but not overbearing, well weighted palate, perhaps a bit warm, but classic with lovely balance overall. Nominated by Fiona McDonald.
93 points, Decanter (Nov 2023)