- Tax included.
The Le Riche Cape Winemakers Guild Cabernet Sauvignon 2001 is a stunning example of classic Stellenbosch elegance, brought to life by the masterful hand of Etienne Le Riche. This rare release opens with deep aromas of cassis, blackcurrant, and cedarwood, interwoven with graphite, violets, and subtle spices. The texture is silky, the structure noble, and the finish endlessly long, a wine that easily stands comparison with top Bordeaux. Drink beautifully now, but with sufficient strength for further development in the bottle.
This wine originates from the iconic granite and sandstone slopes of the Helderberg Mountains in Stellenbosch, a region renowned worldwide for its powerful, refined, and long-lasting Cabernet Sauvignons. The temperate coastal climate, cooled by the False Bay sea breeze, allows for optimal ripening without excessive heat, resulting in pure, concentrated fruit expression and refined acidity—precisely the characteristics that make this 2001 so irresistible.
Le Riche is one of the most respected Cabernet specialists within the Cape Winemakers Guild. For decades, the family has dedicated itself to creating pure, classic wines that reflect the essence of Stellenbosch. CWG selections have always been made in extremely small volumes from the cellar's finest barrels—a combination of craftsmanship, terroir, and tradition that makes this Le Riche 2001 a sought-after collector's item.
Cape Winemakers Guild
The Cape Winemakers Guild (CWG) is one of the world's most prestigious wine collectives. Since its founding in 1982, the Guild has brought together a select group of South Africa's most influential winemakers. Members are admitted by invitation only, and only when they have proven that their work elevates the quality, innovation, and international reputation of the South African wine industry. The CWG is therefore not just an association, but an elite platform where craftsmanship, understanding of terroir, and creative freedom are central.
What makes the CWG truly unique are the special wines created annually exclusively for the Cape Winemakers Guild Auction . These are not regular cuvées: each winemaker develops a limited micro-cuvée available only through the CWG. These wines are often more expressive, bolder, or more experimental in character, showcasing the absolute pinnacle of a producer's capabilities. Thanks to their rarity, quality, and reputation, CWG wines are sought after by international collectors and often reflect the evolution of South African wine.
Besides producing unique wines, the Guild plays a significant role in education, knowledge sharing, and talent development. Through its Protégé Programme, the CWG invests heavily in young winemakers who are shaping the future of the South African wine landscape. Through mentorship programs, practical training, and access to leading wineries, the Guild creates opportunities that would otherwise be virtually inaccessible. This commitment to growth and professionalization has had a significant impact on the growing global appreciation for South African wines.
While the Cape Winemakers Guild is deeply rooted in tradition, innovation remains a key pillar. Members often work with old vineyards, new fermentation techniques, sustainable agriculture, and experimental blends. The Guild's creativity has led to CWG wines regularly receiving international acclaim for their complexity, elegance, and vision. Each bottle tells a story of craftsmanship, terroir, and the winemaker's unique signature.
Today, the Cape Winemakers Guild is both a quality mark and a cultural institution within the South African wine world. Its annual auction attracts buyers from around the world, and CWG wines are known for their investment value, collectibility, and exceptional character. Their limited editions and iconic status make them an essential category for enthusiasts seeking to discover or offer the finest South African wine.