As part of our reflection at this time of year, the Paisley Bear Clubmasters pulled our reams of notes to consider all 12 red and white wines distributed to members, and we selected our top 6 for Paisley Bear Wine Club Best of 2024 Wine Collections.

These picks have accounted for the wines that we loved, but we also considered the feedback from members on wines that they had received over the year. The results are incredible, with all the wines perfectly and immediately enjoyable, but also holding ageing potential.

1. Vondeling Barrel Selection Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Winemaker: Vondeling Wines
Region: Voor-Paardeberg, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A captivating bouquet of ripe blackcurrants, dark cherries, and cassis, complemented by hints of cedarwood, tobacco leaf, and a subtle touch of vanilla.
• Palate: Full-bodied and elegant, with firm tannins, vibrant acidity, and a lingering finish of dark fruit, cocoa, and spice.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Herb-crusted rack of lamb.
• Vegetarian: Wild mushroom risotto with parmesan.
  Occasion: Perfect for winter evenings or celebratory dinners.

2. Wellington La Cave Shiraz 2019

Winemaker: Wellington Wines
Region: Wellington, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Shiraz
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of blackberries, plums, and peppercorns with nuances of smoked meat and sweet spices.
• Palate: Rich and robust with velvety tannins, balanced acidity, and flavors of dark chocolate, black pepper, and cloves.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Grilled beef ribeye with peppercorn sauce.
• Vegetarian: Spicy lentil and eggplant stew.
  Occasion: Best enjoyed during a cozy autumn gathering.

3. Stettyn Family Vineyards Shackleton Pinot Noir 2021

Winemaker: Stettyn Family Vineyards
Region: Breedekloof, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Delicate aromas of red cherries, strawberries, and cranberries with floral undertones and a hint of earthy spice.
• Palate: Light-bodied yet complex, with silky tannins and a refreshing minerality. Red fruit dominates, followed by a touch of clove and forest floor.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Duck breast with cherry sauce.
• Vegetarian: Beetroot tart with goat cheese.
  Occasion: Ideal for spring lunches or picnics.

4. Blackwater ‘Daniel’ Grenache 2018

Winemaker: Blackwater Wine
Region: Swartland, South Africa
Varietal: 100% Grenache
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Bright red fruit aromas of raspberries and strawberries with notes of dried herbs, orange peel, and subtle oak.
• Palate: Medium-bodied with juicy acidity, soft tannins, and flavors of red currants, spice, and a hint of savory umami.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Roast pork with fennel.
• Vegetarian: Ratatouille with fresh herbs.
  Occasion: A delightful wine for summer barbecues.

5. Cavalli Warlord Bordeaux Blend 2020

Winemaker: Cavalli Estate
Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A rich medley of blackcurrants, dark plums, and graphite, with hints of cigar box and dried herbs.
• Palate: Bold and structured, with well-integrated tannins, a plush texture, and flavors of black fruit, cedar, and mocha.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Braised beef short ribs.
• Vegetarian: Lentil and root vegetable shepherd’s pie.
  Occasion: A quintessential winter wine for fireside evenings.

6. Zevenwacht Jan Red (Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre) 2021

Winemaker: Zevenwacht Wines
Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Varietals: Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre
Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of ripe plums, cherries, and blackberries with hints of violets, spices, and earthy undertones.
• Palate: A harmonious blend offering medium body, smooth tannins, and layers of red and dark fruit with a spicy finish.
  Food Pairing:
• Meat: Grilled lamb kebabs with harissa.
• Vegetarian: Stuffed bell peppers with quinoa and feta.
  Occasion: Versatile enough for casual dinners or festive gatherings.