Some grapes are born to be stars; others spend their careers as the charismatic sidekick. In Bordeaux, Cabernet Franc and Malbec are very much the “other guys” — always in the wings, rarely in the spotlight. But in the Coterie by Wildeberg Cabernet Franc–Malbec 2023, these two B-listers join forces for an unexpectedly A-list performance. Sourced from warm Paarl and Franschhoek vineyards and vinified with 100% whole-bunch fermentation, the result is a fresh, translucent, beautifully balanced red that flips the script on what you think you know about either grape. In this video, we unpack why this unusual pairing works so well, how gentle winemaking shapes its energy, and why Wildeberg is one of the Cape’s producers worth watching closely.

TASTING NOTES
The nose struts in with bright red cherry, raspberry, and a lift of red fig, layered with floral perfume and savoury herbal edges. Deeper notes of blueberry, blackcurrant, and a sly touch of sweet spice keep things interesting.

The palate is fresh and translucent, with raspberry tartness zipping across ripe blackcurrant and blueberry. Fine, supple tannins and lively acidity make it feel fleet-footed — more Spider-Man parkour than heavyweight boxer — while subtle whole-bunch spice lingers on a clean, mouth-watering finish.

TECHNICAL SPECS
 67% Cabernet Franc, 33% Malbec. The wine is made using whole-bunch fermentation, with no crushing — only a daily pump-over during natural fermentation to allow for slow, gentle extraction. This approach ensures a pure reflection of the terroir rather than the hand of the winemaker. After fermentation, the wine matures in a mix of new and seasoned French and Austrian oak barrels for 20 months before the final blend is selected. It is then allowed to marry for six weeks before bottling on the estate.

ALC 14.0% | RS 2.1 g/l | TA 6.0 g/l | pH 3.5