Cavalli Warlord 2023

The Cavalli Warlord 2023 is the flagship Bordeaux-style blend from Cavalli Wine Estate, showcasing the exceptional quality of the Helderberg terroir. Crafted from meticulously selected fruit, this powerful yet elegant wine combines Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec to produce a beautifully structured blend with remarkable depth, balance, and ageing potential.

Each varietal was vinified individually to preserve its unique character. The Cabernet Sauvignon was fermented in stainless steel tanks with regular pump-overs to achieve gentle extraction, while the Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec were fermented in small open-top fermenters with manual punch-downs to enhance structure and complexity. Following gentle pressing, all components completed malolactic fermentation in barrel before being matured for 18 months in French oak barriques, allowing the wine to develop seamlessly integrated oak, refined tannins, and exceptional concentration.

Only 12,067 bottles were produced, making the 2023 vintage a limited release that reflects Cavalli's dedication to precision winemaking and uncompromising quality.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Expressive aromas of ripe black plum, blackberry compote, Black Forest cake, cedar, dark chocolate, and subtle baking spice.

Palate: Rich and beautifully structured with layers of dark berries, cassis, cocoa, savoury spice, and a distinctive chalky minerality through the mid-palate. Fine, polished tannins provide exceptional balance and elegance.

Finish: Long and persistent with lingering dark fruit, refined oak spice, and a smooth, sophisticated finish.

Technical Details:

Producer: Cavalli Estate

Wine: Warlord

Vintage: 2023

Region: Helderberg, Stellenbosch, South Africa

Blend: 70% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc, 8% Malbec

Bottle Size: 750ml

ABV: 14%

Production: 12,067 bottles

Harvest: All grapes hand-harvested and meticulously sorted in the early morning.

Vinification: Cabernet Sauvignon fermented in stainless steel with 3–4 pump-overs daily. Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec fermented in small open-top fermenters with 3 manual punch-downs daily.

Skin Contact: 11–14 days.

Malolactic Fermentation: Completed in barrel.

Oak Maturation: 18 months in 225L French oak barriques, with 35% first-fill French oak.

Cellaring Potential: 10–15 years.