96 pts Decanter May 2020

American-born José Conde and team make various versions of Cabernet Sauvignon, including the premium, essentially single-vineyard Three Pines, and this one, which might equally be considered an estate blend: 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Petite Sirah, 2% Malbec,
1% Cabernet Franc. It comes across as seamless, providing a sense of both poise and tightness. Red and black berries, violets and some leafiness plus a little reduction on the nose, while the palate shows pure fruit, bright acidity and firm but fine tannins.

4 ½ Stars 2020 Platter’s South African Wine Guide
17 (94 pts) follows 16 (93 pts) form in subtle influence of dabs of petit verdot, petite sirah, malbec & cab franc. Deeply alluring fruitcake spice yet light, elegant & pliant. Natural ferment with maturation in third new oak, 20 months.
91 pts Wine Spectator 4/30/20
Elegant, with dark plum and currant notes that are lively and balanced due to a bright beam of acidity and soft tannins, lending support and depth. Not a big Cabernet, but one that would pair well with a variety of foods. Best from 2022 through 2033.

91 pts International Wine Report April 2020

The 2017 Stark-Conde Cabernet Sauvignon is a seriously good effort from this Stellenbosch estate. The aromatics have serious range from violets to Asian spices and shades of black currant jelly that all take shape in the glass. Lightly tannic with serious muscle, the wine unveils a deep core of dark fruits that mingle with the dark chocolate and tar tones on the palate.
This is vey impressive.