Taaibosch 'Crescendo'

This wine, now reconstructed from the original Cordoba label, was one of South Africa's first icon wines in the 1990s. Cordoba closed its doors, and in 2017, the Oddo family purchased the farm and started the process of building a winery around the estate's original vineyards. Situated high up on the lower slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, the grapes are farmed organically, and great care is taken to work in harmony with the farm's natural environment. The winery was renamed Taaibosch by the new owners after the indigenous Fynbos species that grows on the estate.

The reintroduction of the Crescendo label was one of the most highly anticipated events in the South African wine industry. In its maiden release under new ownership and a new name, the high aspirations of this classy Bordeaux blend did not disappoint - some have even called it South Africa's take on Chateau Cheval Blanc.

The maiden 2018 release of Taaibosch Crescendo was an unbridled success. Capturing the imagination of critics and collectors alike, the estate’s rebirth allowed long-term enthusiasts to secure the direct descendant of the original Cordoba, South Africa’s original cult wine. The new 2019 shows that this was no beginner’s luck.

“Could Schalk-Willem Joubert do it again in 2019 after such an impressive maiden release? You bet he could and he has even improved on that predecessor. This is more precise and nuanced, presenting a seamless assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 26% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon from the windy western corner of the Helderberg. Complex, layered and restrained, with perfumed 35% new wood, graphite, red berry, blackcurrant leaf and tarragon flavours and fresh, sea breeze-kissed finish. 2024-35” 97 points, Tim Atkin MW

"Peppery cassis, mountain herbs and smoked charcuterie, then a delightful uplift of blackcurrant leaves and juniper berries. Supple fruit and fine tannins, this is an enjoyable blend that will evolve nicely." 93 points, Decanter

Taaibosch 'Crescendo' | Stellenbosch