Tokara steers towards a greener, more sustainable future in 2023

At Tokara the quality of its wines is just one facet of a long-term commitment to its people, the environment, and leaving a legacy for future generations.

Sustainability, underpinned by the commissioning of a 780 kW solar plant, is a major focus area at this prestigious family owned Stellenbosch Wine and Olive Estate in 2023.

“This significant investment in solar energy not only impacts the protection of the environment, but it also helps to ensure the continuity of our operations in an unpredictable energy supply period. By adapting to change and embracing a greener future, we are positioning ourselves as a viable business for all those involved,” says Tokara GM Karl Lambour.

A successful composting and recycling program that has been in place for the past decade, further demonstrates the farm’s dedication to sustainability.

Constantly evolving and looking ahead in terms of responsible wine production in step with international market expectations, Tokara has raised the bar with new standout vintages, from its major focus varieties, Cabernet Sauvignon and Sauvignon blanc.

Tokara winemaker Stuart Botha describes the newly released 2020 vintage wines as having irresistible energy and concentration, which will make them age-worthy gems.

“2020 was a powerful vintage, perfect in every sense – from grape to juice to wine, the stars aligned and ensured a beautiful outcome,” he adds.

The new Reserve Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is yet another classic expression of Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon capturing the true Tokara terroir on the mid-slopes of the Simonsberg. Sumptuous and full, the flavour profile of classic graphite notes, black cherry and briary fruits interwoven with cassis and five spice, follow through onto the palate ending with a multi-layered, persistent finish. Hints of ripe tomato skin and fynbos scrub add deft freshness to the wine.

Tokara TELOS 2017

At the pinnacle of the farm’s original focus variety, Tokara has just released TELOS 2017, the third vintage of this ultimate expression of Tokara excellence. This limited release thoroughbred Cabernet Sauvignon is praised internationally for its complexity and sheer class from a harvest widely considered as one of the best the Cape has ever produced. UK wine commentator Tim Atkin awarded the 2017 vintage 97 points while fellow UK wine critic Neil Martin describes the wine as harmonious with a creamy Margaux-like finish, seductive in its youth with the potential to evolve over the next 20-30 years.

The new vintages of the accomplished Bordeaux-style flagship blends, the Cabernet Sauvignon driven Tokara Director’s Reserve Red 2020 and the Director’s Reserve White 2020 continue to grow in stature representing everything the farm exemplifies – refinement, elegance and balance.

Tokara Director's Reserve Red 2020

The hallmark of the Director’s Reserve Red 2020, a consummate blend of predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Malbec in a supportive role, is its absolute fruit purity and focus. Complex aromas of dried tobacco leaf, subtle violets, dried currants, five spice and graphite prevail on the nose of this vibrant, richly textured wine. Sumptuous and full, it enters the palate with incredible clarity and focus leaving a mouthful of dark cherries, blackberries and ripe plum skin and a lengthy finish.

Tokara’s flagship white wine, the Director’s Reserve White 2020 is a classic Sauvignon blanc/Semillon blend made from grapes on the highest slopes of the Simonsberg. It has amazing clarity and depth. Passionfruit and pink grapefruit intermingle with hints of cassis and freshly toasted brioche. The wine is full and rich with a zesty persistence.

Tokara Elgin Reserve Collection Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is another triumph of aromatic intensity and sheer vinous enjoyment from Tokara’s cool climate Elgin vineyards. An array of typical cooler climate aromas of passionfruit, Cape gooseberry, lemongrass and a signature wisp of blackcurrant leaf align on the palate with vibrant freshness ending with a lingering saline finish.

Tokara Reserve Collection Syrah 2019

The Tokara Reserve Collection Syrah 2019 is a fine example of a classically styled wine that melds the best of old and new world attributes. The nose leads with notes of ripe plum, violets and baking spice all continuing to a classy, refined silky palate with rich dark fruit and an appealing chalky finish with a hint of pepper.

Family values and a responsible, sustainable footprint both in terms of the environment and its people, many of whom have been with Tokara for over 20 years, have shaped the farm’s world-class wines with their distinct South African identity. The new vintage releases uphold all these enduring values, and GT and Anne-Marie Ferreira could not be prouder of Tokara’s progress.