De Toren, Edition Z

Wine Type: Red

Grape(s): 67% Merlot, 29% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot

Country: South Africa

Region: Stellenbosch

Organic: No

Vegan: No

ABV: 14.5%

Winery: De Toren Z was created by design born of cool ocean facing vineyards high in clay content conditions intensely suited to the planting of Merlot. Affectionately called ‘Zee’, this approachable ruby-hued beauty takes its name from the cooling Zephyr breeze that air-conditions the ocean-fronting vineyard block of its origin.

A testimony to vines lovingly reared and a uniquely South African rendering of Bordeaux’s famous Right Bank-style red, the wine has garnered plenty of attention, including that of the formidable 2012 judging panel at Mundus Vini, one of the most prestigious international wine competitions in the world – of the 6 000 wines submitted for scrutiny, the De Toren Z 2010 vintage, produced on a mere 22 hectares in the Polkadraai Hills overlooking Stellenbosch, succeeded in clinching coveted Gold.

Winemaking: Aged in a climatised barrel/ maturation room (16 degrees Celsius at 80% humidity) for 12 months in a combination of new, second and third fill, 225 litre oak barrels. French oak is predominantly used during maturation. De Toren Z was created by design born of cool ocean facing vineyards high in clay content conditions intensely suited to the planting of Merlot. Affectionately called ‘Zee’, this approachable ruby-hued beauty takes its name from the cooling Zephyr breeze that air-conditions the ocean-fronting vineyard block of its origin.

Tasting Notes: Subtle hints of spices, ripe blackberries, plum and cherries. Integrated, complex and beautifully rounded tannins of this expressive and vibrant blend ensure a velvety, lingering finish. At the olfactory level, there is a subtle hint of aniseed on the nose. This full-bodied blend maintains a sleek tannin structure with an immaculate developing palate.

Review from Tim Atkin 2026: "Further evidence of the impact that Martin Fourie has had at De Toren, this is now a blend of Merlot and 29% Cabernet Franc – it had five varieties until 2018 – made in what he call a “Pomerol style”. Subtly wooded in 50% new oak, it combines aromas of graphite, toast and basil with a palate of sweet red fruits, granular tannins and a leafy finish." 94 points.

Pairing: This wine is a very versatile food pairing wine due to its great acidity and weight. It works exceptionally well with very fine spicy foods. Its aromas of mulberries and blueberries perfectly complements rich fish, lamb, duck, beef and poultry.