At a glance

Producer

Tokara

Region

Stellenbosch, South Africa

Grape variety

Red blend (primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot)

Wine type

Red

Body

Full-bodied and Bold

Sweetness

Dry

Typical price

$50-$70

Tasting profile

Blackcurrant, dark cherry, cedar, graphite, tobacco, with fine oak spice and velvety texture

Evolution: Fruit will become more integrated, savory tertiary notes develop over 5-10 years

At peak: Complex layers of dried fruit, earth, mocha, and fine tannins with smooth mouthfeel

Structure

Acidity

Medium-high, balancing the ripe fruit

Tannins

Firm, ripe, well-integrated

Alcohol

14.5%

Aging potential

15+ years from vintage

Drinking window

Peak drinking

2027 to 2042

Optimal window

2023 to 2045

Current status

Entering early maturity

Current condition

The wine is evolving well with structured tannins and vibrant fruit

The wine is crafted from a structured Bordeaux-style blend with high-quality fruit and excellent oak aging. Its robust tannins and balanced acidity support long aging, allowing complex tertiary flavors to develop over 15+ years. The vintage 2017 was very good in Stellenbosch, adding to the wine's longevity.

Food pairing

Pairs well with grilled lamb, beef stew, game meats, mature hard cheeses, and dishes with herbal or smoky components.

Serving

Serving temperature

16-18°C / 61-64°F

Decant

Yes (60-90 minutes) — To allow the wine’s bold tannins to soften and aroma to open up

Sustainability

Sustainability score: 8/10

Water-wise irrigation, integrated pest management, solar energy utilization, reducing chemical inputs, and promoting biodiversity

Tokara is recognized as one of South Africa's premium producers investing in sustainable practices. They have adopted solar power, minimize water use through drip irrigation, and employ biodiversity-friendly farming. While lacking formal organic or biodynamic certification, their careful environmental stewardship and energy use position them well on sustainability. Carbon footprint is mitigated by local vineyard proximity to winery; global distribution moderately adds to emissions.