“A lifestyle without wine is incomplete.”

This quote hails directly from the Guardian Peak Wines stable and I have to say I cannot agree more. Especially when one talks about and drinks the Guardian Peak Lapa Cabernet.

This well-balanced, full-bodied Cabernet is definitely the “complete package”. When the first vintage was bottled in 2004 the aim was to bring a taste of the world-renowned Napa Valley in the United States to South Africa. However, the most important part of this experiment was to stay true to South Africa and their Stellenbosch roots.

Guardian Peak Wines saw the light in 1998. The brainchild of Jean Engelbrecht. Jean’s involvement and knowledge of wine sprouts from a young age. The world-renowned Rust en Vrede Wine Estate has been part of the Engelbrecht family for many generations. This combined with Jean’s world travels and exposure to the international market, the needs and wants of the local as well as oversees wine lover led to the start of this success story.

The vintages for the Lapa Cab Sav are harvested form the Breedekloof (close to Stellenbosch) and the actual Stellenbosch area. Guardian Peak have a long-standing agreement with their growers. This is to ensure that both community as well as Guardian Peak benefits, staying true to their vision and mission – “bringing the international taste of wine to South Africa but staying true to our Stellenbosch roots”.

The Guardian Peak Lapa Cabernet is up there with the best when talking aroma and palate. Subtle hints of dark fruits and cedar on the nose, combined with blackcurrant, black cherries and smooth tannins on the palate is a match made in heaven.

Pairing this full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon at this time of year is quite easy. The winter chill asks for comfort and warm-hearted soul food. What could be better than slow braised lamb shank, shallots, mashed potatoes and celery accompanied by sweet cinnamon oven roasted butternut.

I bet my bottom dollar that this combination will hit the spot and keep the winter chill at bay.