A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Cabernet Franc, only 600 bottles of the 2010 Book XVII will be produced from a micro-vinification in 200-liter batches. It has a super-ripe creme de cassis, fruitcake and fig scented bouquet with a palate that is ostentatious to the point of vulgarity. However, this full-bodied turbo-charged wine is so damn silky smooth and seductive in a super-Tuscan kind of way, that its charms will be nigh impossible to resist. Drink 2015-2022. De Toren is owned by Emil and Sonette Den Dulk, whose 21.9-hectare vineyard overlooks False Bay in the Polkadraai Hills. They are best known for their Fusion V, five representing the classic Bordeaux grape varieties. Winemaker Albie Koch applies a meticulous approach to winemaking, for example, using gravity instead of pumps in the winery. Judging by their website, the inspiration is Bordeaux, though stylistically these wines are New World to their core. I found these to be big, powerful, quite alcoholic wines that are more reminiscent of some cult Napa Valley wines and they would certainly appeal to those who appreciate that style.Importer: Cape Classics, New York, NY; tel. (212) 686-1300