Our Cabernet Franc 2011 Reviewed by the World’s Best Sommelier

During the Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902), the Dal Josaphat farm of Druk-My-Niet was owned by the Hugo family. With the outbreak of the war, two of the Hugo sons set off north to join the commandos in their fight against the British. On the battlefield, a Basotho pony named Mapago was given to one of the brothers for reconnaissance missions.

During one such mission, the brothers lost their way in the vast plains of the Free State, and their situation worsened when a snowstorm set in. Freezing and disoriented, they had no idea how to find their way back to camp. Knowing that Mapago was an exceptional tracker, one of the brothers released the reins, trusting the horse to guide them to safety. True to his reputation, Mapago led them back to camp, saving their lives from certain death in the bitter cold.

After the war, the brothers were determined to bring Mapago home to Druk-My-Niet. However, it took three years of negotiations with the British authorities before he was finally transported by train. Mapago spent the rest of his days on the farm, nestled in the foothills of the Klein Drakenstein Mountains. Upon his passing, at approximately 40 years of age, he was buried in front of the Druk-My-Niet homestead, where a tombstone was erected in his honour. The stone remains intact to this day, bearing the name Mapago and the dates of the Anglo-Boer War, a lasting tribute to the courageous horse who saved the Hugo brothers.

This wine exhudes fragrant aromas of red apple, raspberry, watermelon, guava roll and a touch of spice. The palate is vibrant and fresh, with a delectable creamy texture and juicy flavours of summer berries, cherries and pomegranate.

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Beautiful deep ruby hues, followed by layered aromas of blueberries, black cherries, fresh herbs and pencil shavings. The smooth, velvety tannins are coated by a gentle kiss of oak, all wrapped in delicious flavours of blackcurrants and juicy plums. A fresh seam of acidity keeps all these elements in balance.

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