Buitenverwachting ‘Beyond Expectation’ South African Constantia Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot

Bright, stylish aromas of cassis, plums and pencil lead give way to a complex, structured palate that marries ripe fruit with mineral nuance, with a well-tuned, fragrant finish.

Buitenverwachting means ‘beyond expectation’, which is certainly the feeling one gets on visiting this Cape Dutch estate. It's a lovely estate to visit with an unusual late-18th-century manor house overlooking verdant lawns. Beg, borrow or steal to snag a bottle of its delicious – but limited-release – Christine bordeaux blend. The creamy chardonnay and richly textured cabernet sauvignon are also standout wines.

It all began in Constantia, the narrow bit of peninsula where Governor Simon van der Stel planted 750 hectares of vines in 1685. The South African wine industry has had many changes of fortune in the three centuries since, but this historic estate remains, divided now between five wineries. Buitenverwachting belongs to the Mueller family, who have lovingly restored both its buildings and its reputation as a source of particularly elegant South African wine.