Warwick Estate Trilogy 2020

Winery Background and History: Warwick Estate, located in Stellenbosch, South Africa, has a rich history dating back to 1771 when it was known as “De Goede Sukses.” In 1902, Colonel William Alexander Gordon renamed it “Warwick” after his regiment. The Ratcliffe family acquired the estate in 1964, with Norma Ratcliffe becoming one of South Africa’s first female winemakers. Under her guidance, Warwick gained international acclaim, particularly for its flagship wine, Trilogy, first produced in 1986. The estate is renowned for its commitment to quality and innovation in winemaking.

Producer and Winemaker: The winemaking team at Warwick Estate is led by Cellarmaster Nic van Aarde. With experience from esteemed wineries such as Château Angélus in Bordeaux and Mulderbosch in South Africa, Nic brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to the estate. His focus on Cabernet Franc has been instrumental in shaping the profile of Trilogy, ensuring each vintage reflects the unique terroir of the Simonsberg-Stellenbosch region.

Vineyards and Microclimate: Warwick Estate’s vineyards are nestled at the foothills of the Simonsberg Mountain in Stellenbosch. The region’s Mediterranean climate, characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters, provides ideal conditions for viticulture. The combination of well-drained soils and varying elevations allows for the cultivation of premium Bordeaux varietals. The diurnal temperature variation contributes to the development of complex flavors and balanced acidity in the grapes.

Grape Varietals & Percentage Used: 50% Cabernet Franc, 44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Merlot

Vinification & Aging Methods: Each grape variety is harvested separately, de-stemmed, and hand-sorted into fermentation tanks. The wines undergo a maceration period of 14 to 21 days, with regular pump-overs to extract optimal color and tannins. Post-fermentation, malolactic fermentation occurs in both barrels and tanks. The wine is then aged for 22 months in French oak barrels, with 43% being new oak. After aging, only the finest barrels are selected for blending, ensuring the highest quality for Trilogy.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 14.4%

Tasting Notes: The 2020 Warwick Trilogy exhibits a deep ruby hue. On the nose, it presents floral and perfumed aromas of lilies, black currant, and lavender. The palate is finely structured with powdery tannins and concentrated fruit weight, showcasing flavors of dark chocolate and cassis. A fresh and bright acid structure adds length to the mid-palate, leading to a luxurious and well-composed finish. The wine’s beguiling flavors are complemented by a herbaceous hedgerow lift, enhancing its complexity.

Food & Wine Pairing: This elegant Bordeaux-style blend pairs exceptionally well with rich, savory dishes. It complements slow-roasted lamb shank served with creamy leek and broad bean mash, as well as beef tenderloin with a red wine reduction. The wine’s acidity and tannic structure also make it a suitable match for aged cheeses and hearty stews. Its versatility allows it to enhance a variety of robust flavors, making it a delightful addition to gourmet meals.

Service Methods and Temperatures: To fully appreciate the nuances of the 2020 Warwick Trilogy, it is recommended to decant the wine for at least an hour before serving. This allows the wine to open up and reveal its complex aromatic profile. Serve at a temperature between 16°C and 18°C (60°F to 64°F) in large, Bordeaux-style glasses to concentrate the bouquet and direct the wine to the appropriate areas of the palate. Proper serving enhances the overall tasting experience, highlighting the wine’s structure and depth.

Storage and Aging Potential: When stored under optimal conditions—away from direct light, at a consistent temperature of 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F), and with controlled humidity—the 2020 Warwick Trilogy has the potential to age gracefully for 10 to 15 years. As it matures, expect the development of tertiary flavors such as leather, tobacco, and earthy nuances, adding complexity to the wine’s profile. Regular monitoring is advised to enjoy the wine at its peak.

Scores:

• International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC): Silver Medal

• Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA): Silver Medal

• CellarTracker: User Rating: 90 points