Blackwater Sophie 2020

Blackwater Wines is the brainchild of Francois Haasbroek, a man who is unequivocally part of the bright future of South African wine. Francois completed his schooling in Stellenbosch, surrounded by vineyards, mountains and food. After enrolling at Stellenbosch University and graduating with a bachelor’s degree in science – viticulture and oenology, he began working at Neil Ellis wines. After working and travelling in New Zealand and Europe, Francois returned to South Africa to take up the offer of winemaker at Waterford Wine Estate. The nagging urge to set out on his own winemaking endeavors was always present, but only after nine years at the acclaimed estate did he take the leap to independence. 2010 saw the first tentative steps into this Blackwater Wine project, which ultimately became his focus full time in 2012. Sourcing great grapes and trusting his gut feel, he sets out to create wines that people enjoy drinking. Blackwater Wines focuses on sourcing fruit from the best possible vineyards across the Western Cape, building long lasting relationships with the growers, and making wines with minimal intervention in the cellar.

‘Sophie’ is a new addition to the stable. She is named after Francois’ daughter born in 2020, joining her older brother ‘Daniel’ in the family lineup. ‘Sophie’ is a reinvention on a Cape classic which traditionally involved Cabernet Sauvignon and Cinsaut; Francois’ preference for Cabernet Franc as a more vivid and brighter wine led to this blend. The Cabernet Franc hails from southern Stellenbosch, receiving those very helpful False Bay breezes. The Cinsaut comes from Darling, which is a district almost entirely surrounded by the Swartland, a bit west of Malmesbury. It’s a much warmer and drier climate here, bringing deep, ripe red fruit flavors to the blend. ‘Sophie’ has already earned acclaim on its maiden release, earning 5 stars from Platter’s Wine Guide.