2019 De Toren Private Cellar Z

About the winery De Toren Private Cellar

The De Toren Private Cellar winery was established in the late 1990s in the Polkadraai Hills west of Stellenbosch, in South Africa's Western Cape. The estate is situated at an altitude where factors such as the maritime influence of the Atlantic Ocean and thriving, rich clay soils contribute to a style with elegant structure. The team, led by winemaker Charles Williams and viticulturalist John Kotzé, works with a focus on precision and consistency.

The Stellenbosch region is known for its excellent red blends thanks to its warm daytime climate and cool nights. The marie effect provides freshness, while the sun's rays ensure ripe fruit. The house's style is clearly inspired by the "Right Bank" blends of Bordeaux, with an emphasis on Merlot and Cabernet Franc. This is reflected in the Edition Z series within the range.

The wine 2019 Edition Z – grapes, harvest and vinification

With the 2019 Edition Z, De Toren made a conscious decision: the blend shifted to a purely Merlot-Cabernet Franc blend. Experimenting with previous cuvées resulted in a blend that purely approximates the Right Bank style. In this edition, the Merlot vines are over twenty years old, which lends concentration, while the Cabernet Franc has developed in the vineyard towards finesse and precision.

The grapes were harvested by hand with strict bunch selection. Fermentation took place in small batches, after which the wine aged for 12 months in 225-liter French oak barrels. A portion was then aged in older oak barrels to create a harmony of fruit, wood, and terroir. The alcohol content is approximately 14.4%, and the acidity is consistent with a style that emphasizes structure and balance.

Color, scent and taste of this Edition Z

This 2019 vintage boasts a deep ruby purple color with violet edges. The nose initially reveals rich dark fruit like cherry and blueberry, followed by subtle anise and spice accents and perfumed mineral notes. On the palate, a full yet elegant body develops with polished tannins and lively acidity. The long, layered finish reveals a combination of black fruit, chocolate slices, and a hint of licorice.

Would you like to order wines from De Toren online?

If available, you'll find the official fact sheet and additional information about this fine wine in the "Attachments" tab. We'll automatically send you these when you order this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you pick it up, you'll often receive a nice discount. You'll see your discount immediately when you select "Pick up" at the checkout page. We're located in Dordrecht, just off the A16 motorway with ample parking. Click here for our address. You can read full wine reviews from publications like Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator.
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Wine and food pairings

• Grilled rack of lamb with rosemary and garlic – the wine's acidity and tannins balance the lamb.
• Duck foie gras on brioche with red currant sauce – the ripe fruit and elegant texture complement this dish.
• Steak au poivre with a mild pepper sauce – the spiciness and full body complement the meat perfectly.
• Beetroot risotto with poached duck egg – a surprising combination where the fruit and fine tannins complement the earthy notes.
• Old, mature farm cheese with candied figs – here the wine provides length and contrast with the cheese structure.