💎 The Cab Sauv Crown 💎
We’re back with round two of our “Cab Sauv-Off,” and after giving the Grant Burge Classic Collection Cabernet Sauvignon a fair crack last week, we’ve discovered something special from a bit further afield.
This bottle brings some serious Southern Hemisphere cred and, to our surprise, takes the "W" in this battle. Let’s just say, if you’ve been sleeping on South African wine, now’s the time to wake up.
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From Cork to Glass, This One’s World-Class 🌍
🍷 Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon (2022)
When it comes to first impressions, this bottle nails it. Popping that cork feels fancy, like you’re treating yourself to something way above its price range. Pour it out, and you’re greeted by a deep ruby red that looks as classy as it tastes.
All the hallmarks of a proper Cab Sauv, the Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon (2022) is smooth, rich, and ticks all the right boxes. There's the usual dark cherries and hint of blackcurrant, but if we keep it simple, it’s just ridiculously easy to drink. None of that “this wine is for sipping, not glugging” nonsense. Just good, solid flavour that goes down easy.
This is the kind of red you can confidently bring to a dinner party and casually drop the “It’s South African” line as you pour. Instantly, you’ll get wine cred...not many of your casual wine drinking mates will know South Africa is one of the Southern Hemisphere’s wine powerhouses. This bottle is proof they know what they’re doing.
It's amazing versatility will allow you to pair it with a roast, chocolate bar or nothing at all. And at the end of the day we don't care what you drink it with...we just care that you give this one a crack.
While we’re still big fans of the Grant Burge Cab Sauv, the Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon (2022) edges it out with its sheer drinkability and the added touch of sophistication from that cork. At around $12 to $15, it’s not just value for money - it’s downright impressive.
If you’re on the hunt for a Cab Sauv that delivers a big win for a small spend, this is the one to beat. Plus, it’ll have your mates asking, “Where did you find this?” Bonus points.
VITR Official Score: 9 / 10
👍 Reality vs Perception: Has both the looks and drinkability of a $30 bottle. You’ll feel like you’ve cracked the wine-buying code.
👩🎨 Label Aesthetics: The classic design of this label adds to the appeal, and gives it a bit of an old world feel. We love it!
👴 Comparison to Nonno’s Home Brew: We may have just found a bottle for Nonno to doff his hat to.
🪩 Fit for an Engagement Party: While this definitely meets the engagement party brief, for some reason we'd suggest keeping this one for a quieter dinner party. Maybe it's so you can tell the story of its South African roots and savour every drop.
🤑 Keep the Change: We picked this gem up for $12, and it's money well spent. $3 doesn't go very far at the moment, but might just be enough for a sneaky block of dark chocolate to enjoy after dinner.
Real Talk
📖 Fake It 'Til You Make It
Jammy: Ask for a "jammy" wine and you'll be treated to a bright, juicy red ideal for chilling. You'll really sound like you know what you're talking about!
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💡 Sip Tip
Freeze Leftover Wine: Pour leftover wine into ice cube trays and freeze it for cooking or wine cocktails. Just make sure to use it within 3 months.
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🍿 Sip & Snack
Rosé & Watermelon Feta Salad: This is basically the pink-shirt-and-sunnies pairing of the wine world.
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Until Next Week, Cheers 🍷
Our Cab Sauv-Off has been a blast, and the Zonnebloem Cabernet Sauvignon (2022) has rightfully claimed the crown. If you enjoyed this head-to-head wine battle, let us know!
Got a suggestion for the next showdown? Whether it’s Chardonnay clashes or Pinot Noir pair-offs, we’d love to hear your ideas.
Cheers to another week of uncovering gems in the rough!
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