In Stellenbosch, Cabernet Sauvignon is king. Miles Mossop’s late father, Tony, raised him on Cabernet-based Bordeaux greats. These wines set the blueprint for the style Miles wanted to make himself – wines with powerful, dry tannins, finesse and firm structure, requiring time to be fully enjoyed.
After nearly two decades of producing top Stellenbosch Cabernet, he released the Sam in 2017. His maiden release was awarded a near-perfect 99/100 from Tim Atkin MW, setting the tone for the vintages that followed. Fast forward to the current release, and we’ve secured a small allocation of the 97-point Miles Mossop Sam 2020. This ‘graceful’, ‘sophisticated’ wine (Tim Atkin) is made in minute quantities.
The Sam is ‘consistently one of the best Bordeaux blends in Stellenbosch’, says Atkin in his 2022 SA report. The 2020 is a blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon with 5% Cabernet Franc and 3% Merlot – it’s a powerful wine, showcasing dense fruit with fine detail and character. Miles dedicates his top-end wines to his family, and the Sam is named after his wife.
Tasting Note:
‘”Cooler Stellenbosch” is Miles Mossop’s summary of the origins of this assemblage of Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, sourced from four growers in Bottelary and the Polkadraai Hills. Gentle, graceful, smooth and sophisticated, it’s a Bordeaux style blend for Pinot Noir lovers. Leafy, savoury and detailed with cigar box, bramble and red berry flavours and a sprig of mint.’ – Tim Atkin MW, South Africa Special Report 2023, 97/100
