De Toren Fusion V Gets a Night on the Town

I did not try wines from De Toren while I was in Stellenbosch, but this producer of Bordeaux blends Fusion V and Z, which boast sky-high scores from Platter, Wine Enthusiast, and Decanter, is definitely on my radar now after an impressive showing at Best of the Braai in Toronto: their offerings showed thick, brambly blackberry flavors, dusty cassis and incredible depth. I was thrilled when Cape Classics sent me a bottle of Fusion V 2007 shortly afterward – and I recently found a good chance to open it. 

The occasion was a blind tasting dinner with some of my new coworkers, hosted by a certain local wine VIP. Everyone brings a bagged bottle and they are decanted and then tasted one by one, over much discussion and a tasty assortment of charcuterie. It was suggested that I bring “something that would show well” as well as “something South African” – so I bagged up my Fusion V and took it out for the night.

 

I’m proud to say that it definitely showed well next to the other outstanding bottles, which included a Brunello di Montalcino, a Toro, a Rioja, and a Barolo. Our host, a sommelier, identified it immediately as a “Stellenbosch Bordeaux blend of the John X Merriman-esque* style.” Turns out he actually is a fan of South African wine and has an extensive collection   in his cellar. The tasting notes centered around Bordeaux flavor profiles, lots of tar and minerality, licorice, and a distinct earthiness. I did agree with a coworker that it could have been served a tad cooler (this was before I got my fancy wine fridge, where I now keep all my bottles). Amazingly, Fusion V wasn’t the only South African poured that night – someone else brought a 2004 Vilafonte series m – but it was the favorite of the two and definitely showing well despite its young age.

 It's 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cab Franc, 15% Malbec, 10% Merlot, and 5% Petit Verdot, and it is South Africa's first five-varietal Bordeaux blend. If you can get your hands on it, it's a true showstopper that every doubter of South African excellence should try.

*By the way, if you’re not familiar with John X Merriman, that needs to change. We just got the 2006 in at the store where I work so I’ll have a review up shortly!

De Toren Fusion V 2007

Wine of Origin: Stellenbosch

Importer: Cape Classics

Price: $40*