{"title":"Excelsior","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"excelsior-syrah","title":"Excelsior Syrah","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcelsior Syrah\u003c\/strong\u003e is a South African red wine from Robertson, blended with Petit Verdot and bottled at 14% ABV in a standard 750ml format. Robert Parker's Wine Advocate has highlighted this wine as a remarkable value, noting that one \"wonders how the wines can possibly be well-made, distinctively-packaged, exported to the States, and still sell\" at such an accessible price point — regularly earning the distinction of \"Best Buy.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 14%  |  Origin: Robertson, South Africa  |  Blend: 85% Syrah, 15% Petit Verdot  |  Estate: Excelsior Estate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcelsior Estate sits in the Robertson wine-growing region of South Africa's Western Cape, an area known for its limestone-rich soils and warm, dry climate well suited to full-bodied red varietals. The estate has a history of forward-thinking viticulture — in 1969 it became the first wine estate in South Africa to install drip irrigation, and today the property runs on 50% solar power, a rarity in the wine industry. For this Syrah, 40% of the wine is aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels for six months, adding structure and subtle wood-derived complexity without overwhelming the fruit-forward character of the blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with smoky, meaty notes layered over ripe blackberry and plum. Beneath the dark fruit sit traces of licorice, mint, and baking spice that build as the wine breathes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, the entry is juicy and fruit-driven, with dark berry and cherry flavors flooding the mid-palate. As it develops, hints of chocolate, Asian spice, and freshly cracked black pepper emerge alongside subtle earthy undertones. The oak aging contributes touches of vanilla that weave through the fruit without dominating.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is dry, soft, and satisfying, with lingering pepper, chocolate, and licorice trailing off at a moderate length. Tannins are well-integrated, leaving a smooth, polished impression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Excelsior Syrah\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe at 60–65°F (16–18°C) to let the dark fruit and spice aromatics express fully; a brief 15-minute decant opens up the smoky secondary notes. This wine's fruit intensity and balanced tannins also make it a strong base for several wine-forward drinks. A \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e benefits from the jammy berry core, which stands up to sliced stone fruit and citrus. A \u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo\u003c\/strong\u003e (red wine and cola) plays off the wine's licorice and chocolate notes for a surprisingly harmonious casual serve. A simple \u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e with sparkling water makes a refreshing warm-weather option that preserves the plum and pepper character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners with grilled red meats or hearty pasta\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing friends to South African Syrah without a premium price commitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a casual house wine rotation with reliable, food-friendly reds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBringing a crowd-pleasing bottle to a barbecue or potluck gathering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Excelsior Syrah taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers juicy dark berry and plum fruit with smoky black pepper, licorice, and touches of chocolate and vanilla. The overall profile is fruit-forward and smooth with moderate tannins and a dry, satisfying finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Excelsior Syrah compare to an entry-level Côtes du Rhône?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are Syrah-based and share dark fruit and peppery spice, but Excelsior tends to be riper and more fruit-driven due to Robertson's warmer climate, while a typical Côtes du Rhône leans toward more herbal, garrigue-inflected savory notes. The addition of 15% Petit Verdot in Excelsior also adds a layer of color and tannic structure not typically found in Grenache-heavy Rhône blends.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Syrah good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its soft tannins, generous fruit, and approachable price point make it an excellent gateway into full-bodied Syrah for those exploring red wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Excelsior Syrah made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced at Excelsior Estate in the Robertson wine region of South Africa's Western Cape province. Robertson is known for its warm, dry climate and lime-rich soils that favor ripe, concentrated red wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Excelsior Syrah?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled lamb chops complement the wine's smoky pepper notes. Beef burgers with caramelized onions echo the dark fruit sweetness. Barbecue ribs in a smoky glaze mirror the meaty aromas. Hard aged cheeses like Gouda bring out the vanilla undertones. Mushroom risotto works well with the earthy, savory side of the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Excelsior Syrah come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Syrah is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Syrah worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions firmly as a value-tier red that consistently punches above its weight class — Robert Parker's Wine Advocate has specifically called out its quality-to-price ratio as extraordinary, awarding it Best Buy recognition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Excelsior Syrah?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFew wines at this price tier carry recognition from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate as an exceptional value. The 85\/15 Syrah–Petit Verdot blend is distinctive for the category, with the Petit Verdot contributing additional color depth and tannic backbone that a straight Syrah at this level rarely achieves. Partial aging in both French and American oak for six months adds a layer of vanilla and spice complexity without burying the bright, jammy fruit that makes this wine immediately enjoyable. For anyone looking for an honest, well-made South African red that delivers genuine complexity at an entry-level price, Excelsior Syrah makes a compelling case.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Excelsior","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837915984041,"sku":"34384","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Excelsior-Syrah__07655.jpg?v=1730500063"},{"product_id":"excelsior-sauvignon-blanc","title":"Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcelsior Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100% Sauvignon Blanc from Robertson, South Africa, bottled at 12.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. This vibrant white wine earned a Gold medal at the Michelangelo International Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Awards for both its 2024 and 2025 vintages, and its 2021 vintage reached an aggregated 89\/100 on Wine-Searcher — a strong showing for a wine at this price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 12.5%  |  Origin: Robertson, Western Cape, South Africa  |  Varietal: 100% Sauvignon Blanc  |  Winery: Excelsior Wine Estate\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExcelsior Wine Estate sits in Robertson, within the Breede River Valley of South Africa's Western Cape — a region prized for its warm days, cool nights, and minimal need for chemical intervention thanks to the dry climate. What sets this Sauvignon Blanc apart is a deliberate three-soil blending strategy: roughly 30% of the fruit comes from limestone-rich calcareous clay soils that contribute bright citrus and tropical fruit character, 35% from alluvial soils that provide minerality and crisp green fruit, and 35% from high-altitude shale-based vineyards that bring fresh herbal qualities and passionfruit intensity. All grapes are hand-harvested for tighter quality control, allowing the winemaking team to select only the best fruit at optimal ripeness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with a wave of passion fruit and lime, followed by ripe fig and a faint grassy, herbaceous edge. There is a subtle capsicum note underneath that adds freshness and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e On the palate, green apple and gooseberry arrive first, quickly joined by tropical citrus and litchi at the mid-palate. A thread of minerality runs through the wine, likely reflecting those alluvial vineyard blocks, while well-integrated acidity keeps everything taut and focused.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish is lengthy and fruit-driven, with lingering passionfruit and a clean, bracing acidity that refreshes the palate. A subtle herbal undertone persists, inviting another sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eServe well chilled, between 8–10°C (46–50°F), to let the tropical and citrus aromatics shine without muting the wine's herbal complexity. This is a natural fit for warm-weather sipping on its own, but it also works in several wine-based drinks. A classic \u003cstrong\u003eSpritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e — equal parts wine and sparkling water over ice — plays up the wine's crisp acidity on a hot afternoon. A \u003cstrong\u003eHugo Cocktail\u003c\/strong\u003e (elderflower liqueur, prosecco, and a splash of Sauvignon Blanc with fresh mint) benefits from this wine's herbaceous edge. For something bolder, a \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e loaded with sliced citrus and stone fruit amplifies the wine's existing tropical profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCasual outdoor gatherings and braais where a refreshing, crowd-friendly white is needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing someone to South African Sauvignon Blanc without a steep price commitment\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a seafood-focused dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStocking a versatile everyday white for weeknight meals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It delivers a fruit-forward profile of passion fruit, green apple, gooseberry, and litchi, underpinned by bracing acidity and a subtle mineral-herbal backbone. The finish is long and refreshing with lingering tropical fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc compare to Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc?\u003c\/strong\u003e Marlborough Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand tend to lean heavily into pungent green and herbaceous notes, whereas Excelsior shows a rounder, more tropical and mineral-driven character shaped by Robertson's warmer climate and diverse soil types. Both styles are fruit-forward and high in acidity, but the South African expression typically delivers a softer, less aggressive aromatic intensity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its approachable fruit-forward profile, balanced acidity, and clean finish make it an easy entry point for anyone exploring Sauvignon Blanc or South African wine in general. It rewards casual sipping without demanding deep wine knowledge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is produced by Excelsior Wine Estate in the Robertson wine region of the Western Cape, South Africa, within the broader Breede River Valley. The estate draws fruit from three distinct soil types across its vineyards to build complexity in the final blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled prawns or calamari complement the wine's citrus acidity. Fresh goat cheese salads echo its tangy minerality. Sushi and sashimi work well thanks to the crisp, clean finish. Thai green curry finds balance against the wine's tropical fruit and acidity. Asparagus-based dishes pair naturally with the herbal, grassy notes in the wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior positions as an entry-level to mid-range South African Sauvignon Blanc, and its consistent critical scores in the high 80s alongside multiple Michelangelo Gold medals suggest it punches above its weight class in terms of quality for the price.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Excelsior Sauvignon Blanc?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe three-soil blending approach is the real story here — it is unusual for a wine at this price point to draw from such deliberately varied terroir blocks to build complexity. Consecutive Gold medals at the Michelangelo International Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Awards confirm that this deliberate approach translates to the glass. Robertson's dry climate also means the estate can farm with minimal chemical intervention, resulting in cleaner, more expressive fruit. For anyone seeking a South African Sauvignon Blanc that delivers genuine complexity without a premium price tag, Excelsior makes a compelling case.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Excelsior","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837916016809,"sku":"34383","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Excelsior-Sauvignon-Blanc__71214.jpg?v=1730500067"},{"product_id":"excelsior-chardonnay","title":"Excelsior Chardonnay","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcelsior Chardonnay\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 100% Chardonnay from Robertson Valley, South Africa, bottled at 13.5% ABV in a standard 750ml format. The 2023 vintage earned 85 points from \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e, while the 2022 vintage received an 84-point \"Best Buy\" designation from the same publication — recognition that underscores its consistent quality-to-value ratio.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 13.5%  |  Origin: Robertson Valley, Western Cape, South Africa  |  Style: Oaked Chardonnay  |  Producer: Excelsior Wine Estate\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExcelsior Wine Estate sits in the Robertson Valley within the Breede River Valley district of South Africa's Western Cape. The estate sources this wine from a blend of its three best Chardonnay blocks, with grapes harvested by hand to ensure optimal ripeness and quality control at the vine. Fifty percent of the wine is aged in equal parts French and American oak, a split-cooperage approach that layers toasty complexity onto the fruit without overwhelming it; the remaining half stays unoaked, preserving freshness and varietal purity in the final blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with mild white tea and flint, then builds into ripe peach, orange blossom, and green apple. A subtle marmalade quality emerges as the wine opens in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The palate enters with zesty lemon and lime brightness, moving through ripe stone fruit and pineapple at the mid-palate. A creamy, full texture from partial oak aging balances the citrus acidity, with pear and gentle herbal notes adding dimension toward the peak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium in length with gentle acidity carrying overripe citrus and soft peach tones. The oak influence lingers as a light, toasty warmth rather than a heavy vanilla stamp.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Excelsior Chardonnay\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis Chardonnay works well slightly chilled to around 50–55°F, which allows the oak-influenced creaminess and the bright citrus notes to present in balance. It also performs nicely in cocktails: a \u003cstrong\u003eWhite Wine Spritzer\u003c\/strong\u003e plays up the wine's natural citrus zing with a splash of soda; a \u003cstrong\u003eChardonnay Sangria\u003c\/strong\u003e built with sliced stone fruit and a touch of elderflower liqueur complements the peach and pear notes; and a \u003cstrong\u003eFrench 75 variation\u003c\/strong\u003e using this wine in place of Champagne brings a rounder, tropical dimension to the classic recipe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinners where a versatile, food-friendly white is needed\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing South African wine to friends who typically drink California or Australian Chardonnay\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSummer patio gatherings calling for a crisp but textured white\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBudget-minded entertaining without sacrificing oak-aged character\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Excelsior Chardonnay taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Chardonnay leads with lemon-lime citrus and ripe stone fruit, balanced by a creamy mid-palate from partial oak aging and a gentle, medium-length finish. Expect peach, green apple, and pineapple flavors framed by soft acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Excelsior Chardonnay compare to other Robertson Valley Chardonnays?\u003c\/strong\u003e Robertson Valley is known for limestone-rich soils that promote natural acidity in white wines, and Excelsior's split-cooperage technique — half in French and American oak, half unoaked — sits in a middle ground between fully oaked and stainless-steel styles from the region. Its 85-point \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e score and \"Best Buy\" history position it as a reliable benchmark for the appellation at an accessible price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Chardonnay good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes, it stands up well on its own thanks to enough oak-derived texture to give the palate weight, while the citrus acidity keeps it from feeling heavy or flat.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Excelsior Chardonnay made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Chardonnay is produced at Excelsior Wine Estate in the Robertson Valley, a sub-region of the Breede River Valley in South Africa's Western Cape province. The estate hand-harvests from its three top-performing Chardonnay vineyard blocks.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Excelsior Chardonnay?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled chicken with a lemon-herb marinade mirrors the wine's citrus brightness. Creamy pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo complement the oak-aged texture. Pan-seared white fish with a butter sauce echoes the wine's soft richness. A mild goat cheese salad highlights the wine's acidity, and roasted butternut squash brings out the underlying stone-fruit sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Excelsior Chardonnay come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Chardonnay is widely available in the standard 750ml bottle format.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Chardonnay worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Chardonnay positions firmly as a value-tier oaked Chardonnay, and its \"Best Buy\" recognition from \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e confirms that it delivers more complexity than its price bracket typically suggests.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Excelsior Chardonnay?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe split-cooperage approach — equal parts French and American oak on only half the blend — is a deliberate production choice that gives this wine a layered texture without the heavy-handed butterscotch that plagues many value Chardonnays. Hand harvesting from just three select vineyard blocks adds a level of quality control uncommon at this price point. Consecutive positive reviews from \u003cem\u003eWine Enthusiast\u003c\/em\u003e, including the 85-point 2023 vintage and the \"Best Buy\" 2022, demonstrate vintage-to-vintage reliability. For anyone exploring South African whites or looking for an everyday Chardonnay with genuine oak character, this Robertson Valley bottling makes a strong, well-documented case for itself.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Excelsior","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837916049577,"sku":"34382","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Excelsior-Chardonnay__57454.jpg?v=1730500071"},{"product_id":"excelsior-cabernet-sauvignon","title":"Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExcelsior Cabernet Sauvignon\u003c\/strong\u003e is a South African red wine from Robertson's Breede River Valley, bottled at 14% ABV in a standard 750ml format. A perennial Wine Enthusiast \"Best Buy\" selection and Michelangelo International Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Awards Gold medal winner, this Cabernet consistently punches above its weight class in the value-driven South African wine landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 14%  |  Origin: Robertson, Breede River Valley, Western Cape, South Africa  |  Blend: 90% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot  |  Producer: Excelsior Estate\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExcelsior Estate has been in the De Wet family for four and now five generations, rooted in the limestone-rich soils of Robertson along South Africa's Breede River Valley. The estate made history in 1969 as the first wine property in South Africa to install drip irrigation — a pioneering move that signaled the family's commitment to progressive viticulture. The Cabernet Sauvignon is blended with 10% Petit Verdot for added depth and structure, then aged 8 to 9 months in a combination of French and American oak barrels. That dual-oak approach contributes both toasty vanilla richness from American oak and finer-grained spice from French cooperage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dark plum and ripe blackcurrant lead the nose, layered with smoky undertones and subtle dried herb notes. Secondary aromas of cola, vanilla, and toasty oak develop with air, joined by a thread of coriander-like spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is plush and fruit-forward, with juicy black cherry and plum flooding the mid-palate. Sweet fruit flavors are well-framed by spicy oak, while hints of licorice and charred smoke add dimension. The 10% Petit Verdot contributes noticeable structural grip, keeping the wine from tipping into softness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium to long, with crushed-velvet tannins that feel smooth and ripe rather than astringent. Lingering notes of dark berry skin, sweet smoke, and a faint peppery warmth carry through to the close.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Excelsior Cabernet\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA slight chill to around 16–18°C (60–64°F) brings out the fruit definition; serving too warm will push the alcohol forward. This wine drinks well on its own or with food, and a brief 15-minute decant helps integrate the oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCabernet Sangria:\u003c\/strong\u003e The ripe dark fruit profile holds up to citrus and brandy without losing its backbone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eKalimotxo:\u003c\/strong\u003e The wine's plush sweetness and low tannin bite blend surprisingly well in this classic red wine and cola combination.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRed Wine Reduction:\u003c\/strong\u003e Its smoky, plummy character concentrates beautifully when reduced for steak sauces or braised dishes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWeeknight dinner pairing when you want reliable quality without overthinking the selection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing friends to South African wine with an approachable, crowd-pleasing red\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStocking a house wine that holds up across multiple pours over a dinner party\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a case of affordable, food-friendly Cabernets for the cellar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Excelsior Cabernet taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Ripe dark plum and blackcurrant dominate, supported by smoky oak, vanilla, and licorice, with smooth tannins that lean toward fruit sweetness rather than austerity. The Petit Verdot component adds a firm structural backbone and a peppery lift on the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Excelsior Cabernet compare to Nederburg Cabernet Sauvignon?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are widely available South African Cabernets, but Excelsior distinguishes itself with a 10% Petit Verdot blend that adds deeper color and firmer tannin structure, while its Robertson origin tends to yield riper, more fruit-forward wines than Nederburg's cooler Paarl-based vineyards. Excelsior's dual aging in both French and American oak also gives it a broader range of oak-derived flavors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Cabernet good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its soft, ripe tannins and generous dark fruit make it an easy stand-alone glass, especially after a brief decant to let the smoky oak integrate with the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Excelsior Cabernet made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior Estate is located in Robertson, within the Breede River Valley of South Africa's Western Cape, a warm inland region known for limestone-rich soils that produce ripe, concentrated red wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Excelsior Cabernet?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled lamb chops work particularly well, as the smoky char mirrors the wine's toasty oak. Braised beef short ribs match its plush dark fruit weight. Aged cheddar or Gouda echo the vanilla and spice notes. Bobotie — a traditional South African spiced meat dish — bridges the wine's fruit sweetness and peppery finish. Dark chocolate with 60–70% cacao complements the licorice and plum tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Excelsior Cabernet come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard widely available format is 750ml.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Excelsior Cabernet worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Excelsior positions firmly as an entry-level Cabernet that repeatedly earns accolades typically reserved for bottles at higher price points — multiple Wine Enthusiast \"Best Buy\" designations and an 86-point score from Robert Parker's Wine Advocate reinforce its strong value standing in the South African Cabernet category.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Excelsior Cabernet?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe repeated Wine Enthusiast \"Best Buy\" recognition and Michelangelo Gold medals for the 2019 and 2020 vintages confirm this is not a one-vintage fluke but a consistently well-made wine. The 90\/10 Cabernet Sauvignon-Petit Verdot blend is a deliberate choice that gives the wine more color saturation and tannic grip than many single-varietal competitors at this tier. Excelsior Estate's five-generation farming legacy and history of viticultural innovation — including pioneering drip irrigation in South Africa — speak to a property that takes vineyard management seriously even at accessible price points. For drinkers looking for a dependable South African Cabernet with genuine complexity, the dual-oak aging and thoughtful blending make Excelsior a benchmark for value.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Excelsior","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837916082345,"sku":"34381","price":11.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Excelsior-Cabernet-Sauvignon__78084.jpg?v=1730500075"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/excelsior.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}