Raats 'Red Jasper' Red Blend 2022 750ml

Product Info

92+ pts Vinous Media
The 2022 Red Blend Jasper is a Bordeaux blend that’s hand-sorted, basket-pressed and aged for 16 months in used French oak. It offers a nose of well-defined red fruit, red bricks, cracked black pepper, tobacco and loam. The palate is medium-bodied with a fresh and saline entry. Notes of black olive tapenade emanate from the Cabernet Franc and drive this along. There’s real precision on the finish; this is just as good as the 2021 and may ultimately prove better. Drinking Window 2026 – 2040

Gavin Bruwer Slabbert was keen to emphasize a slight change in tack for the Bruwer Vintners Vine Exploration when we met at his abode on the outskirts of Stellenbosch with co-proprietor and his big cousin, Bruwer Raats. “We have focused on what is uniquely South African and incorporate that with a sustainable dimension,” he explained. “So, the labels focus mainly on the Polkerdraai. We are also taking a long-term view on Grenache.” This currently is blended into their Dry Red Blend, so it will be interesting to see whether they will eventually make a separate Grenache-based cuvée. He also told me that their Syrah was picked a few weeks after the rain at the end of March, preferring to wait it out rather than expedite the harvest. Judging by the quality of their Lone Wolf cuvée, it was the right decision.

The Cabernet Franc Vlag Vineyard Selection Polkadraai Hills is a welcome addition to the Raats Family Wines portfolio. As if Bruwer and Gavin needed another cuvée to prove they are masters of this variety. More exciting still is a brand new white cuvée under the Mvemve Raats banner. Hitherto limited solely to the brilliant MR de Compostella, their MR Vesperi, which means "evening star" in Latin, is a Bordeaux-inspired white blend of Chenin Blanc, Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc. Trust me, this will sit comfortably alongside their Compostella, a sublime combination of varieties that is more than a sum of its parts. - By Neal Martin on August 2024

Terroir
Red Jasper is produced in Stellenbosch, one of the most historic and diverse winegrowing areas in South Africa. The region’s proximity to both the Atlantic Ocean and False Bay creates a maritime influence that moderates temperatures, allowing grapes to ripen slowly while preserving natural acidity. Cooling sea breezes frequently move inland during the afternoon, reducing heat stress and helping maintain balance in the fruit.

The vineyards used for Red Jasper are planted on a variety of soils typical of Stellenbosch, including decomposed granite and sandstone with clay subsoils. These well-drained yet moisture-retentive soils encourage deep root systems and contribute both structure and minerality to the wine. The region’s Mediterranean climate—warm days paired with cool evenings—supports full phenolic ripeness while maintaining freshness and aromatic lift. The 2022 vintage delivered healthy fruit with excellent concentration and balance, ideal for producing structured yet approachable red blends.

Winemaking & Technical Notes
Red Jasper is typically a Bordeaux-inspired blend led by Cabernet Franc with contributions from varieties such as Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec. Each component is harvested separately at optimal ripeness and fermented individually in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve purity of fruit and varietal character.

During fermentation, gentle extraction techniques are used to build structure without excessive tannin. After fermentation, the wines are transferred to French oak barrels—primarily older barrels with a smaller percentage of new oak—for maturation lasting roughly 12–16 months. This aging period allows the components to integrate while adding subtle complexity in the form of spice, texture, and structure.

Once maturation is complete, the final blend is assembled to highlight the aromatic elegance of Cabernet Franc while balancing the structure and depth contributed by the other varieties. The result is a wine that combines refinement, vibrancy, and approachability.

Tasting Notes
The 2022 Red Jasper presents a deep ruby color with garnet edges. The nose is expressive and layered, revealing aromas of blackcurrant, ripe plum, and dark cherry alongside floral hints of violet. Secondary notes of graphite, cedar, and dried herbs add complexity, reflecting the influence of both terroir and careful oak aging.

On the palate, the wine is medium to full-bodied with a polished texture and vibrant energy. Flavors of cassis, blackberry, and red plum unfold across the palate, supported by savory undertones of tobacco, crushed herbs, and subtle spice. The Cabernet Franc provides aromatic lift and fine structure, while the supporting varieties add depth and roundness.

Fine-grained tannins and balanced acidity give the wine a harmonious structure, leading to a persistent finish marked by dark fruit, mineral nuance, and gentle oak spice.

Food Pairing & Service
Serve at approximately 60–65°F (16–18°C). Decanting for 30–45 minutes will help the wine open aromatically and soften the tannins. Red Jasper pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, roast beef, or herb-crusted pork loin. The wine’s savory character also complements dishes featuring rosemary, thyme, or Mediterranean spices.

For vegetarian pairings, roasted portobello mushrooms, lentil stews, or eggplant-based dishes work particularly well. Hard cheeses such as aged cheddar or Comté also highlight the wine’s balance of fruit and structure.

Cellaring Potential
The 2022 Red Jasper possesses the balance and structure necessary for graceful aging. Its combination of ripe fruit, refined tannins, and fresh acidity provides a solid framework for development in bottle.

Under proper cellaring conditions, the wine should evolve beautifully over the next 10–12 years. As it matures, the bright primary fruit will gradually give way to more complex tertiary notes of leather, dried herbs, cedar, and earthy spice. The tannins will soften and integrate further, revealing a more nuanced and elegant expression of Stellenbosch terroir.