Mullineux Leeu Passant - Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
Born from the collaboration between the Mullineux family and the Leeu Passant project, this 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon embodies the most classic and refined expression of South African red wine. Located between Franschhoek and the cool slopes of Stellenbosch, the estate cultivates a network of parcels selected for their altitude, their iron-rich sandstone and clay soils, and their maritime influence. The climate, tempered by the proximity of False Bay, brings cool nights that preserve the natural acidity and aromatic finesse, in a style inspired by great, age-worthy Cabernets, but with a distinctly South African identity.
The 2022 Leeu Passant Cabernet Sauvignon comes from vines planted on well-exposed slopes, hand-harvested at precise ripeness. The berries are carefully sorted and then gently destemmed before fermentation in tanks with indigenous yeasts, punctuated by gentle pump-overs to extract color, tannins, and aromas without harshness. Aging then continues in barrels and French oak casks, primarily previously used for several vintages, to refine the tannins and add complexity to the bouquet without masking the fruit. The result is a Cabernet of great purity, structured, profound, built for aging but already remarkably precise in its youth.
On the palate, the nose is intense and nuanced. It opens with aromas of ripe black fruits—blackcurrant, blackberry, and black cherry—underscored by notes of violet, blackcurrant leaf, and a subtle, elegant herbaceous touch reminiscent of the cool terroirs of Stellenbosch. These are followed by hints of cedar, graphite, cigar box, and mild pepper, with a base of blond tobacco and fine cocoa that reflects the perfectly integrated aging process.
On the palate, the attack is direct and precise, driven by a fresh acidity that balances the richness of the fruit. The mid-palate is ample and deep, with firm yet finely integrated tannins, exhibiting an elegant, chalky texture. Flavors of blackcurrant, black plum, and macerated red berries mingle with notes of bay leaf, dried thyme, cedar, and dark chocolate. The structure is vertical, built to evolve, yet remains harmonious and already approachable after careful aeration. The finish lingers on graphite, blackcurrant, sweet spices, and a mouthwatering touch that confirms the refined and taut character of this terroir-driven Cabernet.
At the table, Mullineux Leeu Passant Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 naturally calls for flavorful cuisine. It pairs beautifully with grilled ribeye steak, rare sirloin steak, rack of lamb in a herb crust, or roasted duck breast. It also complements venison fillet, game steak in a red wine reduction, spiced beef tagine, or slow-cooked beef cheek stew. For vegetarians, it elevates a pan-fried medley of wild mushrooms, a root vegetable gratin, a vegetarian moussaka, or lasagna with candied vegetables. With cheeses, it finds a lovely match with mature pressed cheeses such as Comté, aged Cantal, or mature Gouda.
Grape variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
