Mulderbosch is one of the most important estates in Stellenbosch, where they make a wine very close in character to Bordeaux. Steady ocean breezes rise off of False Bay, and roll across the gently rolling countryside where shale, clay, gravel, and sandstone earth is planted primarily to vineyards. Growers here take inspiration from the similarity to Bordeaux’s terroir, and the region has made full bodied blends from Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot and even Malbec for centuries. The Faithful Hound is one of the best – and certainly best value – available today. All of Mulderbosch’s fruit is farmed sustainably, with even temper and complexity in mind. The wine ages in used oak barrels, resulting in balance and impressive fruit freshness. The wine begins with notes of deep black cherry and currant, pipe tobacco, potting soil, and vanilla bean on the nose. Wide brim tannins provide a sturdy structure for this full bodied draft of blackcurrant pie fruit with notes of tar, pipe smoke, and aromatic herbs. Serve this soon with sturdy meats and vegetables roasted in an oven or smoked.