Get to know: KWV The Mentors Petit Verdot 2020
An exceptional South African red wine from the renowned vineyards of Stellenbosch.
Tasting Note
The Mentors Petit Verdot 2020 is a bold and beautifully structured Stellenbosch red that delivers layers of dark fruit and spice. Deep ruby in colour, it opens with lifted aromas of cranberries, black cherries, sweet spice, and a hint of aniseed. On the palate, it’s rich and full-bodied with flavours of ripe plums, black olives, and dark berries supported by firm yet integrated tannins. The finish is long and satisfying, with a fine balance of fruit and oak. A superb example of Petit Verdot’s power and finesse when crafted by skilled South African winemakers.
Top food pairings:
- Slow-cooked beef short rib with red wine jus
- Lamb shank with rosemary and garlic mash
- Mature cheddar or aged Gouda
Kate Says
"This is a real showstopper. Bold, rich, and elegant – it’s the kind of red you open when you want to impress. Perfect for a slow Sunday roast or a cosy night in with a great cut of beef."
Producer Info
KWV is one of South Africa’s most historic and respected wine producers, founded in 1918 and based in Paarl with vineyards across the Western Cape. Their acclaimed Mentors range highlights the country’s finest terroirs and varietals, crafted under the guidance of winemaker Justin Corrans. With access to grapes from 72 growers across diverse regions – including Stellenbosch, Swartland, and Walker Bay – KWV combines tradition with innovation to showcase the very best of South African wine.
How it’s made:
- Variety: 100% Petit Verdot
- Hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, then carefully sorted for quality
- Cold macerated for two days to extract colour and aroma
- Fermented for six days with gentle pump-overs every five hours
- Matured for 18 months in French oak barrels (70% first-fill) for structure and depth
Good to know:
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Region: Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Style: Red, full-bodied
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Closure: Natural cork
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Vegan: Vegetarian (not vegan)
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ABV: 14.5%
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Vintage: 2020
Why we love it:
This Stellenbosch Petit Verdot is a brilliant example of South Africa’s modern red winemaking – rich yet refined, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and silky tannins. It’s a wine that pairs beautifully with hearty food and promises to age gracefully, offering outstanding value for lovers of powerful, elegant reds.