90pts Wine Advocate
The nose of the 2016 Z bursts from the glass with aromas of Chambord, crème de cassis, juicy plum and black raspberry, dusty flowers and oak spice. Full-bodied and luscious, the fruit expressions continue to show their juiciness across the mid-palate with layers of complex black and dark red macerated fruit. This delightful wine continues to unpack layers of complexity with additional time in the mouth. The finish persists with finesse over the long-winding conclusion. Drink Date: 2021 – 2028 Reviewed by: Anthony Mueller Published: May 28, 2021

Terroir
De Toren “Z” is produced in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s most highly regarded sites for Bordeaux varieties. Positioned on elevated slopes overlooking False Bay, the vineyards benefit from cooling maritime breezes that moderate daytime heat and extend the ripening season. This coastal influence plays a crucial role in preserving freshness and aromatic precision while allowing for full phenolic maturity.

The soils are predominantly decomposed granite and clay, offering excellent drainage and encouraging deep root penetration. These conditions naturally limit yields and contribute to the wine’s structure and mineral backbone. The 2016 vintage is widely regarded as outstanding in Stellenbosch, delivering concentration, balance, and age-worthy structure.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
De Toren “Z” is a Bordeaux-style blend built primarily around Zinfandel-inspired proportions of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Each varietal component is vinified separately to preserve its individual character before blending.

Fermentation is followed by aging in French oak barrels, a significant portion of which are new, over an extended period to allow for full integration of tannin and oak. The élevage is carefully managed to enhance texture and complexity while maintaining balance and elegance. The final blend reflects precision, depth, and De Toren’s hallmark refinement.

Tasting Notes
The 2016 De Toren “Z” opens with a deep, layered aromatic profile. Notes of blackcurrant, ripe plum, and blackberry are complemented by graphite, cedar, and dark chocolate. Subtle hints of violets, tobacco leaf, and baking spice emerge with time, adding aromatic complexity.

On the palate, the wine is full-bodied and structured, with flavors of black cherry, cassis, and dark berry compote framed by firm, finely grained tannins. Well-integrated acidity provides lift and balance, keeping the wine poised despite its depth and power. Oak-driven notes of espresso, cocoa, and vanilla are present but seamlessly woven into the fruit.

The finish is long, savory, and persistent, marked by dark fruit, spice, and a mineral edge that reflects the granite soils of the Polkadraai Hills. The wine’s structure and harmony point clearly toward long-term aging potential.

Food Pairing & Service
De Toren “Z” 2016 pairs exceptionally well with grilled or roasted red meats, including beef tenderloin, lamb, and venison. It also complements rich stews, mushroom-based dishes, and aged hard cheeses. The wine’s depth and tannic structure make it well suited to bold, savory cuisine.

Serve at 60–65°F (16–18°C) in a large Bordeaux-style glass. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended to allow the wine to fully express its aromatic range and soften its tannins. While approachable now with aeration, the 2016 vintage will continue to evolve beautifully over 12–20 years, gaining additional complexity and nuance.