The Producer
Diemersfontein Wine & Country Estate is a Wellington institution, home to three generations of the Sonnenberg family and one of the most recognised wine brands in South Africa. While the estate made its name with the original Coffee Chocolate Pinotage in 2001, the core Diemersfontein range proves there’s serious winemaking depth across the board. Nestled in the Wellington wine valley — surrounded by the Hawequa and Groenberg mountains — winemaker Francois Roode has been crafting award-winning wines since 2003. The estate holds multiple Michelangelo Gold medals, Tim Atkin MW recognition, and Platter’s recommendations across its portfolio. Beyond the cellar, Diemersfontein is also known for its commitment to community upliftment through the Thokozani empowerment initiative.
Vintage & Terroir
The 2024 vintage in Wellington brought ideal conditions for Cabernet Sauvignon — warm, sun-filled days with reliably cool evening breezes sweeping in from False Bay. This diurnal temperature swing is crucial for Cabernet, preserving acidity and aromatic complexity while allowing full tannin and flavour development. The estate’s decomposed granite and clay soils on the Wellington slopes provide excellent drainage and natural vigour control, producing small berries with concentrated colour, flavour and structure. The mountain-ringed landscape acts as a natural amphitheatre, capturing and channelling cool air through the vineyard blocks.
In the Cellar
The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes were harvested at optimal ripeness, destemmed and fermented with careful temperature control to extract colour and fruit purity. Regular pump-overs during fermentation built structure and tannin complexity without harshness. After pressing, the wine matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels, adding layers of cedar, vanilla and spice that complement the Cabernet’s natural cassis and dark fruit character. The final blend was assembled for balance and drinkability — a wine that’s approachable now but has the structure to reward short-term cellaring.
Tasting Notes
Appearance: Deep garnet-red with bright ruby highlights.
Nose: Classic Cabernet aromatics of blackcurrant and cassis, layered with cedar, dark chocolate and a hint of green pepper freshness.
Palate: Medium to full-bodied, with concentrated dark fruit, ripe blackberry and plum flavours supported by firm but well-integrated tannins. A savoury, spicy mid-palate adds complexity and keeps the wine interesting.
Finish: Lingering and structured, with dark fruit, cedar and fine-grained tannins that promise development in the cellar.
Food Pairing
A natural partner for red meat — try it with a flame-grilled T-bone, herb-crusted rack of lamb, or a slow-braised beef shin. It’s also brilliant alongside a rich mushroom and truffle pasta, mature cheddar, or a classic South African potjiekos. For a braai-day classic, pair with boerewors and chakalaka. Serve at 16–18°C.
Technical Details
| Vintage | 2024 |
| Region | Wellington, Coastal Region |
| Grape(s) | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon |
| Alcohol | 14.0% |
| Closure | Cork |
| Cellaring | Drink now or cellar for 4–6 years |
| Bottle Size | 750ml |
| Case Size | 6 bottles |
Our Guarantee
Every case of Diemersfontein Cabernet Sauvignon 2024 is backed by our 100% Happiness Assured! Guarantee. If you’re not completely delighted, get in touch and we’ll make it right — no fuss, no fine print, just great wine and happy customers.
