The 2009 Paul Sauer, which was made by current winemaker Abrie Beeslaar, comprises 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% each of Merlot and Cabernet Franc. It is magnificent, one of the finest vintages that I have tasted. Still deep in colour, the bouquet bursts from the glass with copious scents of macerated black cherries, cassis, dates and Seville oranges. The palate is precocious yet balanced to a fault, a fine line of acidity keeping everything in check, exuberant from beginning to end. Caressing in texture, this Paul Sauer manages to be both hedonistic yet completely refined. It would give most self-aggrandising clarets from the same vintage a run for their money.