Thelema Rabelais Bordeaux Blend 2021 is a flagship premium red from Thelema Mountain Vineyards, a family‑run estate in the Simonsberg foothills of Stellenbosch, South Africa with a reputation for crafting expressive, Old World–inspired wines using classic Bordeaux varieties. Thelema named this bottling for the 16th‑century French writer François Rabelais as an homage to both heritage and spirited winemaking. Rabelais represents the very best Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot parcels selected each vintage, reflecting the ripe fruit and structural tension of Stellenbosch’s granite‑rich soils and cool Atlantic influence. The 2021 vintage is a 90 % Cabernet Sauvignon and 10 % Petit Verdot blend that spent about 18 months in French oak barrels (majority new), resulting in a full‑bodied, layered wine with concentrated aromas and flavours. The nose displays red and black berries, cassis, plum, cedar, spice and subtle floral notes, leading into a palate with ripe dark fruit, polished tannins, balanced acidity and hints of vanilla, tobacco and earth. The finish is long and refined, making this a wine with both depth and ageing potential. Rabelais 2021 has earned high critical acclaim, including around 98 points in the Tim Atkin South Africa Special Report, and is widely regarded as a standout Cape Bordeaux blend with excellent structure and complexity that can cellar gracefully for years. This wine pairs beautifully with grilled or roasted red meats, rich stews, lamb with herbs or game, and its polished tannins and savoury finish also make it rewarding with mature cheeses and robust dishes. Why we love this wine? If you love inky rich Bordeaux style wines, this is the wine for you!
