South Africa
At the bottom of its great continent, South Africa is a country of unlimited natural advantages. With the confluence of two oceans at the Cape, the sheltering effect of inland mountain chains and some of the most dynamic soils in the world, every piece is in place for the production of fine wine. The most well-known region has historically been Stellenbosch, but it is the wines of Swartland that have really turned South African wine on its head in recent years.
The wine industry is in the midst of a renaissance with classically styled wines making full advantage of remarkable terroir and an adventurous spirit. As a result, South Africa is producing some truly exceptional wines of great character and value. Striking blockbuster Syrahs and Bordeaux blends to full bodied Chardonnay and crisp Sauvignon Blanc are some of this great nation’s offerings. South Africa’s own grape, Pinotage, leaves critics divided yet can produce excellent single-variety offerings as well as distinguished Cape blends.
South Africa
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€129.82 |
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Tim Atkin MW (97)The Mullineux use two vineyards to make this world-class straw wine, which "have botrytis and lots of malic acid". Dried on shade cloth, rather than straw, it's incredibly sweet at 305 grams of sugar, with exotic nectarine and guava flavours, hints of toast and coconut, a volatile lift and wonderful freshness and length. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€185.99 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)One of my "go to" wines when I see it on a restaurant wine list, this intensely perfumed Syrah comes from seven vineyards, mostly on schist soils. Made with 90% whole bunches, it has more tannin than you think at first, layers of spice, violet and blackberry fruit and a refreshing tang. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€111.55 |
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The Naude Semillon Vv 2016 exemplifies the pinnacle of South African viticulture, meticulously crafted by the esteemed Naude Wines in the picturesque Stellenbosch region. Handpicked from select Vv vineyard parcels, the Semillon grapes undergo a gentle cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their crisp acidity and vibrant fruit profile. This vintage is aged on stainless steel to maintain its fresh, zesty character, allowing nuanced notes of citrus and white peach to flourish. The 2016 climate bestowed ideal ripening conditions, resulting in a harmonious balance between acidity and subtle oak undertones derived from minimal barrel contact. On the palate, Naude Semillon Vv 2016 reveals a refined elegance with lingering mineral finishes and a graceful texture, making it a versatile companion to seafood and light poultry dishes. Celebrated in esteemed wine publications, this Semillon stands as a testament to Naude Wines' dedication to excellence and terroir expression. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (CE) |
Inc. TAX
€267.83 |
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Christian Eedes (94)Grapes from multiple blocks on the farm, each with a slightly different soil structure but essentially granite based. Limited whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 11 months in 228-litre barrels, 29% new. Exotic aromatics of red and black berries, orange, earth and a touch of reduction. Impressive depth of fruit, bright acidity and fine-grained, tight-knit tannins. Rich but balanced, this is Pinot at its most seductive. Alc: 14%. |
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Coastal Region | 29 | 87 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€502.79 |
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Wine Advocate (87)The 2011 Eisen & Viljoen has a better set of aromatics than the 2012: blackberry, sage and graphite scents, quite reserved but nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe black fruit mixed with blueberry and graphite. Like the 2012, there seems to be just a touch of bitterness on the finish, though not as procounced as the ensuing vintage, but detracting from what could have been a better wine. Re-tasting in South Africa with the owners, unfortunately I found the same thing. There were just 11 barrels produced. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | 86 (WA) |
Inc. TAX
€502.79 |
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Wine Advocate (86)The 2012 Eisen & Viljoen has a well defined, quite focused bouquet with blackberry, smoke, cedar and undergrowth scents that have a Left Bank-like flair. The palate is medium-bodied with quite dense black fruit, and is nicely balanced, but I noticed a green note on the finish that knocks over what could have been a fine wine. That's a shame. I would be intrigued to taste another vintage. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 96 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€419.52 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)The latest in an impressive run of outstanding Chardonnays from this top Elgin estate - no mean feat in a vintage where some producers struggled with fructose levels - this is bigger and bolder than the 2017 release. More Meursault than Puligny-Montrachet perhaps, with some cream and cashew notes on the palate underpinned by racy acidity |
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Coastal Region | 30 | - |
Inc. TAX
€210.94 |
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Discover the exquisite Paulus Wine Co., Bartas Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch 2023, a testament to Stellenbosch's renowned terroir. Crafted by the esteemed Paulus Wine Co., this Chenin Blanc is meticulously vinified using hand-harvested grapes from the prestigious Bartas vineyard. The grapes undergo a gentle pressing followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their vibrant fruit character and crisp acidity. A subtle ageing on neutral oak allows for a harmonious integration of flavours without overshadowing the varietal's inherent freshness. The 2023 vintage reveals a brilliant golden hue, complemented by aromas of ripe pear, apple blossom, and a hint of minerality. On the palate, it offers a lively acidity balanced with a nuanced complexity, showcasing notes of citrus zest and white peach, culminating in a clean, lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood or light poultry dishes, this Chenin Blanc exemplifies Paulus Wine Co.'s dedication to quality and elegance. |
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Coastal Region | 30 | - |
Inc. TAX
€198.94 |
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The Paulus Wine Co., Bosberaad Chenin Blanc, Voor-Paarderberg 2023 is a quintessential expression of South Africa’s esteemed Swartland region. Crafted meticulously from hand-picked Chenin Blanc grapes, this wine undergoes a careful fermentation process in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant acidity and fresh fruit character. Paulus Wine Co., renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture, employs minimal intervention techniques, allowing the purest expression of the terroir to shine through. On the nose, it reveals enticing aromas of ripe pear, white peach, and subtle floral notes, complemented by a crisp and balanced palate with a lingering minerality. The Voor-Paarderberg terroir imparts a unique complexity, making this 2023 vintage a remarkable addition to any fine wine collection. Perfectly suited to pair with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses, this Bosberaad Chenin Blanc exemplifies refined elegance and expert craftsmanship. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€790.06 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)Has any brand in South Africa achieved quite so much as Porseleinberg in less than a decade? This is the best vintage yet from this steep, brutal, extreme schist-rich site and that's saying a good deal. Big, bold and intense, with incredible, almost feral intensity, incense, tar and black pepper aromas and layers of inky dark fruit. A stunning wine from a stunning site, made by a gem of a winemaker. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 100 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€880.06 |
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Tim Atkin MW (100)In the right hands, great sites produce great wines. Since its inception in 2010, Porseleinberg has been one of the Cape's most exciting reds, but nothing quite prepared me for the transcendent brilliance of this wine. In uenced by some time spent at Domaine Jamet in Côte Rôtie - particularly their use of a submerged cap during fermentation - Callie Louw has made a stunning Syrah, proving his skills as both a farmer and a winemaker. In 2018, the style has shifted, away from power and grip to something more scented and re ned. Focused, nuanced and very delicately oaked, with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, clove and white pepper spice and textured tannins. Simply world class. 2023-35 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 100 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€141.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (100)In the right hands, great sites produce great wines. Since its inception in 2010, Porseleinberg has been one of the Cape's most exciting reds, but nothing quite prepared me for the transcendent brilliance of this wine. In uenced by some time spent at Domaine Jamet in Côte Rôtie - particularly their use of a submerged cap during fermentation - Callie Louw has made a stunning Syrah, proving his skills as both a farmer and a winemaker. In 2018, the style has shifted, away from power and grip to something more scented and re ned. Focused, nuanced and very delicately oaked, with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, clove and white pepper spice and textured tannins. Simply world class. 2023-35 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€898.56 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)This remarkable site has established itself as one of the world's great Syrah vineyards in less than a decade. Sourced from four blocks totally 4.5 hectares, Callie Louw's stunning red is just short of perfection this year, but is still brilliant, confirming the evolution in style of the Jamet-inspired 2018. Leafy, spicy, rose petal aromas are supported by pure red berry fruit, detailed tannins and the faintest hint of oak. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€131.04 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)This remarkable site has established itself as one of the world's great Syrah vineyards in less than a decade. Sourced from four blocks totally 4.5 hectares, Callie Louw's stunning red is just short of perfection this year, but is still brilliant, confirming the evolution in style of the Jamet-inspired 2018. Leafy, spicy, rose petal aromas are supported by pure red berry fruit, detailed tannins and the faintest hint of oak. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€673.66 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)"We pick the vintage," says Callie Louw, whose 2020 Porseleinberg is the second lightest in alcohol he's ever made at 13.6%. Fermented with 100% whole bunches using the submerged cap technique that transformed the wine in 2018, this is another scented, seamless stunner from Callie Louw. Aged in large foudres and 5% concrete eggs, it's a spicy, sappy, hauntingly elegant Syrah from a brutal site, with kelp, rose petal and fynbos aromas, juicy bramble and red berry fruit, fine tannins and a wonderful sense of energy. 2024-32 |
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Coastal Region | 3 | 99 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€772.56 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Given its consistently outstanding quality, it’s easy to forget that the average age of Porseleinberg's 14 hectares of vineyards is only seven years' old. Showing what Callie Louw calls a "little more crunch" in 2021, this is a Syrah with time on its side. Wild herb aromas of sage, oregano and rosemary introduce you to a palate that's dense yet refined, with lots of whole bunch spice and structure, negligible oak influence, detailed, layered tannins, some underlying grip and layers of dark berry fruit. One of the world's great reds from a very special site. 2025-32 |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (TA) |
In Bond
€107.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (97)The Mullineux use two vineyards to make this world-class straw wine, which "have botrytis and lots of malic acid". Dried on shade cloth, rather than straw, it's incredibly sweet at 305 grams of sugar, with exotic nectarine and guava flavours, hints of toast and coconut, a volatile lift and wonderful freshness and length. |
|||||||||
|
|
Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (TA) |
In Bond
€132.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)One of my "go to" wines when I see it on a restaurant wine list, this intensely perfumed Syrah comes from seven vineyards, mostly on schist soils. Made with 90% whole bunches, it has more tannin than you think at first, layers of spice, violet and blackberry fruit and a refreshing tang. |
|||||||||
|
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€89.00 |
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|
The Naude Semillon Vv 2016 exemplifies the pinnacle of South African viticulture, meticulously crafted by the esteemed Naude Wines in the picturesque Stellenbosch region. Handpicked from select Vv vineyard parcels, the Semillon grapes undergo a gentle cold fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their crisp acidity and vibrant fruit profile. This vintage is aged on stainless steel to maintain its fresh, zesty character, allowing nuanced notes of citrus and white peach to flourish. The 2016 climate bestowed ideal ripening conditions, resulting in a harmonious balance between acidity and subtle oak undertones derived from minimal barrel contact. On the palate, Naude Semillon Vv 2016 reveals a refined elegance with lingering mineral finishes and a graceful texture, making it a versatile companion to seafood and light poultry dishes. Celebrated in esteemed wine publications, this Semillon stands as a testament to Naude Wines' dedication to excellence and terroir expression. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (CE) |
In Bond
€201.00 |
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Christian Eedes (94)Grapes from multiple blocks on the farm, each with a slightly different soil structure but essentially granite based. Limited whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 11 months in 228-litre barrels, 29% new. Exotic aromatics of red and black berries, orange, earth and a touch of reduction. Impressive depth of fruit, bright acidity and fine-grained, tight-knit tannins. Rich but balanced, this is Pinot at its most seductive. Alc: 14%. |
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Coastal Region | 29 | 87 (WA) |
In Bond
€396.00 |
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Wine Advocate (87)The 2011 Eisen & Viljoen has a better set of aromatics than the 2012: blackberry, sage and graphite scents, quite reserved but nicely focused. The palate is medium-bodied with ripe black fruit mixed with blueberry and graphite. Like the 2012, there seems to be just a touch of bitterness on the finish, though not as procounced as the ensuing vintage, but detracting from what could have been a better wine. Re-tasting in South Africa with the owners, unfortunately I found the same thing. There were just 11 barrels produced. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | 86 (WA) |
In Bond
€396.00 |
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Wine Advocate (86)The 2012 Eisen & Viljoen has a well defined, quite focused bouquet with blackberry, smoke, cedar and undergrowth scents that have a Left Bank-like flair. The palate is medium-bodied with quite dense black fruit, and is nicely balanced, but I noticed a green note on the finish that knocks over what could have been a fine wine. That's a shame. I would be intrigued to taste another vintage. |
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|
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 96 (TA) |
In Bond
€329.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)The latest in an impressive run of outstanding Chardonnays from this top Elgin estate - no mean feat in a vintage where some producers struggled with fructose levels - this is bigger and bolder than the 2017 release. More Meursault than Puligny-Montrachet perhaps, with some cream and cashew notes on the palate underpinned by racy acidity |
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Coastal Region | 30 | - |
In Bond
€152.00 |
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|
Discover the exquisite Paulus Wine Co., Bartas Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch 2023, a testament to Stellenbosch's renowned terroir. Crafted by the esteemed Paulus Wine Co., this Chenin Blanc is meticulously vinified using hand-harvested grapes from the prestigious Bartas vineyard. The grapes undergo a gentle pressing followed by fermentation in stainless steel tanks to preserve their vibrant fruit character and crisp acidity. A subtle ageing on neutral oak allows for a harmonious integration of flavours without overshadowing the varietal's inherent freshness. The 2023 vintage reveals a brilliant golden hue, complemented by aromas of ripe pear, apple blossom, and a hint of minerality. On the palate, it offers a lively acidity balanced with a nuanced complexity, showcasing notes of citrus zest and white peach, culminating in a clean, lingering finish. Ideal for pairing with seafood or light poultry dishes, this Chenin Blanc exemplifies Paulus Wine Co.'s dedication to quality and elegance. |
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Coastal Region | 30 | - |
In Bond
€142.00 |
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The Paulus Wine Co., Bosberaad Chenin Blanc, Voor-Paarderberg 2023 is a quintessential expression of South Africa’s esteemed Swartland region. Crafted meticulously from hand-picked Chenin Blanc grapes, this wine undergoes a careful fermentation process in stainless steel tanks to preserve its vibrant acidity and fresh fruit character. Paulus Wine Co., renowned for their commitment to sustainable viticulture, employs minimal intervention techniques, allowing the purest expression of the terroir to shine through. On the nose, it reveals enticing aromas of ripe pear, white peach, and subtle floral notes, complemented by a crisp and balanced palate with a lingering minerality. The Voor-Paarderberg terroir imparts a unique complexity, making this 2023 vintage a remarkable addition to any fine wine collection. Perfectly suited to pair with seafood, poultry, or creamy cheeses, this Bosberaad Chenin Blanc exemplifies refined elegance and expert craftsmanship. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
In Bond
€614.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)Has any brand in South Africa achieved quite so much as Porseleinberg in less than a decade? This is the best vintage yet from this steep, brutal, extreme schist-rich site and that's saying a good deal. Big, bold and intense, with incredible, almost feral intensity, incense, tar and black pepper aromas and layers of inky dark fruit. A stunning wine from a stunning site, made by a gem of a winemaker. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 100 (TA) |
In Bond
€689.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (100)In the right hands, great sites produce great wines. Since its inception in 2010, Porseleinberg has been one of the Cape's most exciting reds, but nothing quite prepared me for the transcendent brilliance of this wine. In uenced by some time spent at Domaine Jamet in Côte Rôtie - particularly their use of a submerged cap during fermentation - Callie Louw has made a stunning Syrah, proving his skills as both a farmer and a winemaker. In 2018, the style has shifted, away from power and grip to something more scented and re ned. Focused, nuanced and very delicately oaked, with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, clove and white pepper spice and textured tannins. Simply world class. 2023-35 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 100 (TA) |
In Bond
€114.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (100)In the right hands, great sites produce great wines. Since its inception in 2010, Porseleinberg has been one of the Cape's most exciting reds, but nothing quite prepared me for the transcendent brilliance of this wine. In uenced by some time spent at Domaine Jamet in Côte Rôtie - particularly their use of a submerged cap during fermentation - Callie Louw has made a stunning Syrah, proving his skills as both a farmer and a winemaker. In 2018, the style has shifted, away from power and grip to something more scented and re ned. Focused, nuanced and very delicately oaked, with raspberry and wild strawberry fruit, clove and white pepper spice and textured tannins. Simply world class. 2023-35 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
In Bond
€706.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)This remarkable site has established itself as one of the world's great Syrah vineyards in less than a decade. Sourced from four blocks totally 4.5 hectares, Callie Louw's stunning red is just short of perfection this year, but is still brilliant, confirming the evolution in style of the Jamet-inspired 2018. Leafy, spicy, rose petal aromas are supported by pure red berry fruit, detailed tannins and the faintest hint of oak. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
In Bond
€106.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)This remarkable site has established itself as one of the world's great Syrah vineyards in less than a decade. Sourced from four blocks totally 4.5 hectares, Callie Louw's stunning red is just short of perfection this year, but is still brilliant, confirming the evolution in style of the Jamet-inspired 2018. Leafy, spicy, rose petal aromas are supported by pure red berry fruit, detailed tannins and the faintest hint of oak. |
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|
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
In Bond
€517.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)"We pick the vintage," says Callie Louw, whose 2020 Porseleinberg is the second lightest in alcohol he's ever made at 13.6%. Fermented with 100% whole bunches using the submerged cap technique that transformed the wine in 2018, this is another scented, seamless stunner from Callie Louw. Aged in large foudres and 5% concrete eggs, it's a spicy, sappy, hauntingly elegant Syrah from a brutal site, with kelp, rose petal and fynbos aromas, juicy bramble and red berry fruit, fine tannins and a wonderful sense of energy. 2024-32 |
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Coastal Region | 3 | 99 (TA) |
In Bond
€601.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Given its consistently outstanding quality, it’s easy to forget that the average age of Porseleinberg's 14 hectares of vineyards is only seven years' old. Showing what Callie Louw calls a "little more crunch" in 2021, this is a Syrah with time on its side. Wild herb aromas of sage, oregano and rosemary introduce you to a palate that's dense yet refined, with lots of whole bunch spice and structure, negligible oak influence, detailed, layered tannins, some underlying grip and layers of dark berry fruit. One of the world's great reds from a very special site. 2025-32 |
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