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.
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South Africa
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Coastal Region | 3 | - |
Inc. TAX
€621.72 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€111.42 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€516.12 |
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Beyerskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 1995 exemplifies the pinnacle of South African viticulture. Cultivated in the pristine Stellenbosch region, renowned for its exceptional terroir, this vintage showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Beyerskloof, a family-owned estate with decades of winemaking heritage. Handpicked Cabernet Sauvignon grapes underwent careful fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by extended aging in French oak barrels, imparting nuanced layers of cassis, tobacco, and cedar. The 1995 vintage benefited from optimal growing conditions, resulting in a wine of extraordinary structure and depth. Decades of cellar maturation have refined its tannins, allowing the complex bouquet to unfold gracefully with notes of dark berries, graphite, and subtle spice. Beyerskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 1995 offers connoisseurs a remarkable opportunity to experience a distinguished expression of Cabernet Sauvignon craftsmanship. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€248.46 |
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The Blankbottle Aasvoel 2018 epitomises South Africa’s rich vinicultural heritage, crafted meticulously in the esteemed Stellenbosch region. Handpicked from sustainably managed vineyards, the grapes undergo a gentle fermentation process in stainless steel vats to preserve their vibrant acidity and pristine flavours. Under the expert guidance of owner-vigneron Pieter Du Toit, each vintage reflects a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation. The Aasvoel 2018 showcases expressive notes of citrus and tropical fruits, complemented by subtle herbal undertones and a mineral-driven finish. Matured for twelve months, this elegantly structured wine offers exceptional depth and complexity, making it a distinguished choice for discerning connoisseurs. Blankbottle’s unwavering commitment to quality and terroir is evident in every bottle, ensuring the Aasvoel 2018 stands as a testament to their passion for fine winemaking. Ideal for both cellaring and immediate enjoyment, this exquisite wine promises a memorable sensory experience. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€168.82 |
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Vinous (92)The 2017 The Chocolate Block contains less Syrah than previous vintages: 64%, plus 14% Grenache, 11% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the Cabernet being the only variety that saw new oak. It was matured 16 months in used oak. The important factor is that there is not much more fruit sourced from the estate’s vines in Porseleinberg and the Goldmine Vineyards. It has a very well defined bouquet of blackberry, raspberry coulis, crushed rose petals, hints of orange peel and minerals. This is much more detailed and classic in style than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, and quite saline and spicy in the mouth . The fresh, quite pure finish lingers in the mouth. This is a very impressive wine, to the point where I feel that The Chocolate Block no longer reflects the style of the wine. It is a great achievement that this level of quality is achieved with 2,057 barrels of wine. Bravo. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€226.86 |
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Vinous (92)The 2017 The Chocolate Block contains less Syrah than previous vintages: 64%, plus 14% Grenache, 11% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the Cabernet being the only variety that saw new oak. It was matured 16 months in used oak. The important factor is that there is not much more fruit sourced from the estate’s vines in Porseleinberg and the Goldmine Vineyards. It has a very well defined bouquet of blackberry, raspberry coulis, crushed rose petals, hints of orange peel and minerals. This is much more detailed and classic in style than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, and quite saline and spicy in the mouth . The fresh, quite pure finish lingers in the mouth. This is a very impressive wine, to the point where I feel that The Chocolate Block no longer reflects the style of the wine. It is a great achievement that this level of quality is achieved with 2,057 barrels of wine. Bravo. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 90 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€196.48 |
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Vinous (90)The 2021 The Chocolate Block had been bottled a month before my visit. The Grenache and Cinsault plus part of the Syrah comes from Boekenhoutskloof's own vines and the remainder from purchased fruit. It undergoes whole berry fermentation and aged for 14 months in French barriques and two oak foudres. This has a much more refined and focused bouquet than the Chocolate Blocks of yore, brambly black fruit mixed with pencil lead and undergrowth. Impressive delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with powdery tannins, well judged acidity, quite structured and sappy towards the finish. Fine length. |
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Coastal Region | 8 | 93 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€341.29 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 93 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€226.50 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€141.84 |
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Vinous (93)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€400.38 |
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Vinous (93)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€282.94 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The nose on this outstanding wine reminds me of an elite Cabernet from another part of the world – Frankland River in Western Australia. There is more than a hint of ‘Houghton Jack Mann’ on the perfume and palate of this wine’s sensational 25th-anniversary release. Underpinning the profoundly deep black fruit notes is a sense of earthiness and energy that allows the blackberry and blackcurrant flavours to soar. With 70% new French oak on board, which has been folded away perfectly into the heart of this mighty wine, there is an extra dimension of flavour here thanks to the addition of a soupcon of Cabernet Franc. Only a handful of South African wines manage to capture this noble grape’s true essence while maintaining a compelling sense of stylishness. 2020 CSF does this in spades and it will continue to do so for two decades. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 91 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€142.62 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Sémillon, which has a 3% splash of Muscat of Alexandria, is made with an oxidative winemaking approach. It has a neutral nose, one where I would have liked more Sémillon character to poke through even at this early stage. The palate shows much more potential, presenting lovely lemon curd, toffee apple and white chocolate notes. The acidity is nicely judged, although that toffee note makes me wonder exactly how this will age. A second bottle showed less conspicuous toffee-ish notes and was much more in line with how I expect the wine to show. My score is based on this bottle. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€110.64 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow! |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€322.42 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow! |
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Coastal Region | 7 | 96 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€292.42 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)Boekenhoutskloof's world-class Semillon uses grapes from three distinct blocks in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, combining these with 3% Muscat d'Alexandrie. Showing more acidity and restraint than the stunning 2020, and less of the struck match character, it has notes of lemongrass, custard and beeswax and a core of chiselled acidity. Needs more time. |
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Coastal Region | 12 | 19 (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€295.81 |
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Matthew Jukes (19)This ancient vine Semillon (with its hints of blushing Muscat) has never looked more alluring. The expansive but slender chassis gives way to a brittle, teasing finish, and the floral, silver needle, and jasmine notes are overwhelmingly rhythmic and hypnotic. 2022 Boek Sem experience is like no other Semillon on earth. |
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Coastal Region | 10 | 91 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€327.29 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon contains 4% Cabernet Franc and sees 18 months in 60% new French oak. It has a more Bordeaux-like aromatic profile than its Franschhoek counterpart, scents of cedar and mint infusing the blackberry and raspberry fruit. The oak is nicely integrated here. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and plump blackberry and raspberry fruit laced with clove and touches of violet. It finishes in much more Cape style, with fennel and a hint of aniseed lingering on the aftertaste. This just shows more personality and complexity than the Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon this year. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 18.5+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€319.98 |
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Matthew Jukes (18.5+)Plush and packed with cassis, this is a tremendously flashy wine with deep wells of liqueur-like fruit coupled with strident oak and a lovely bright, dry finish. Yearning to be set free, BCSS is like a prize-fighter itching for the bell so it can launch itself at its opponent. This is an amazing Cabernet and while it has the stuffing to go deep into the later rounds, I love its toned flanks and glistening musculature right now. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (PG) |
Inc. TAX
€351.18 |
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Platter's South African Wine Guide (97)(Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year) Power & precision combine in stellar 2019. Ripe black cherry fruit with lifted perfume notes (dab of cab franc, as Franschhoek sibling), fine integrated tannins & fresh, lithe appeal. 75% new French oak adds to muscular richness completing a very fine wine. 5 parcels in Helderberg, Polkadraai & Faure. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | 18.5+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€590.27 |
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Matthew Jukes (18.5+)Bold, ripe, juicy and swaggering, this roguish Pauillac-dimensioned wine counterpoints the grace and elegance of its sibling Cab with visible definition rippling through its garments. There is harmony from the off, which, again, belies its age, further demonstrating that bigger, more showy styles can still be crafted with innate balance if you have the skills, and the Dastardly Duo can do this with their eyes shut. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€258.78 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)I have never forgotten the 2000 vintage of this wine, which I wrote up in one of my books many moons ago. In the blink of an eye, the perfume on this 2018 vintage took me back to that great wine and while this label has been known to wander off into the forest in certain vintages, it is back with a brooding bang and loaded with Hermitage-like malevolence in 2018. With a melange of both red and black fruit tones and considerable aromatic lift on the nose, this is a Syrah with its feet firmly planted in the earth while its head is in the clouds such is the scale and majesty of its posture. Like the other reds in this vintage, the oak integration is near perfect and this allows the fruit to sing. If there is one wine to drink before the other reds, then this is it, and while it might be a criminal offence to drink this wine so young, I am sure you will break the law for a flavour as enthralling and all-encompassing as this one. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 97 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€273.18 |
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Tim Atkin MW (97)The wine that launched the modern Syrah revolution in South Africa, even if it's sourced from two sites in the Swartland these days, rather than Somerset West. Almost indecently perfumed and alluring, this is a very immediate wine that will also reward cellaring. Sweet spices, red berry fruit, fine, savoury tannins and just a hint of oak with energetic acidity. 2023-31 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
Inc. TAX
€261.18 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)With 90% of the fruit coming from Porseleinberg and 10% from Goldmine, both in Swartland, this is a wondrous wine with more detail and finesse than any preceding vintage. Utilising only large foudre, the spice and fruit aromatics are as pure and evocative as I have encountered in a Cape Syrah. While the flavour palette is more deep purple than black-fruited, there is no obvious oak intervention and this allows the fruit to soar. Sanguineous and sappy on the finish, this is a glorious red wine with elemental animal notes interwoven with silky ribbons of beautifully ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and plum flavours. With the same texture and volume of fruit as a Vosne-Romanée, this is a regal creation that distances itself from the meat and muscle often found in sun-loving Syrahs! |
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Coastal Region | 7 | 97 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€292.42 |
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Tim Atkin MW (97)Given that 90% of its raw material comes from Porseleinberg - the other 10% comes from Boekenhoutskloof's Roundstone property - it's no surprise that this is such an impressive Syrah. Fermented with 65% whole bunches, it combines fynbos, lavender and Asian spice aromas with a palate of white pepper, barbecued meat, oregano and blackberry framed by sappy, granular tannins. World class. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
Inc. TAX
€493.98 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)I’m making this for Syrah fanatics”, says Reenen Borman. Lucky them is all I can say, because this is another stunning release from a brilliant young winemaker. Intense, granitic and spicy, with lovely lavender and garrigue aromas, layers of dark, inky fruit, stylish oak and amazing length. What more do you want from a Syrah? 2020-30 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€584.87 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 94 (VN) |
Inc. TAX
€119.82 |
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Vinous (94)The 2018 Epilogue Syrah, which is 30% whole bunch fermented and matured for 13 months in 20% new 400-litre oak barrels, has an outstanding, very well defined bouquet with pure black cherries, boysenberry, iodine and violet aromas that are very expressive. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little gamey in style, touches of fennel and white pepper, leading to a caressing, velvety finish very classy. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€493.98 |
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The benchmark cuvée from the exceptionally talented Reenen Borman, at the helm of this mythical estate since 2010 - this wine is spoken about in hushed tones amongst experts, critics.
More Info
50% whole-bunch fermentation has given the wine monolithic structure, without a single brick out of place. 25% of the wine was raised in 400 litre oak barrels, imparting gentle seasoning and further fine tannins, whilst the remaining 75% was raised in concrete eggs, preserving the fruit's sensational freshness and impossible purity. Naturally, this wine is infantile due to its quality and structure, but already it displays a mesmeric mélange of violets, dried flowers, herbs and spices on the nose. Positively quivering with energy at this stage, the wine’s acidity shoots like Artemis’ arrow across the palate, losing no momentum through the endless finish. It is hard to overstate the juddering quality of Epilogue – Tim Atkin MW said of the 2017 that it was “now established as one of the Cape’s great Syrahs”... It is now one of the world’s greatest wines. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. TAX
€142.62 |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Coastal Region | 3 | - |
In Bond
€472.00 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€89.00 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€384.00 |
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Beyerskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 1995 exemplifies the pinnacle of South African viticulture. Cultivated in the pristine Stellenbosch region, renowned for its exceptional terroir, this vintage showcases the meticulous craftsmanship of Beyerskloof, a family-owned estate with decades of winemaking heritage. Handpicked Cabernet Sauvignon grapes underwent careful fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, followed by extended aging in French oak barrels, imparting nuanced layers of cassis, tobacco, and cedar. The 1995 vintage benefited from optimal growing conditions, resulting in a wine of extraordinary structure and depth. Decades of cellar maturation have refined its tannins, allowing the complex bouquet to unfold gracefully with notes of dark berries, graphite, and subtle spice. Beyerskloof Cabernet Sauvignon 1995 offers connoisseurs a remarkable opportunity to experience a distinguished expression of Cabernet Sauvignon craftsmanship. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€184.00 |
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The Blankbottle Aasvoel 2018 epitomises South Africa’s rich vinicultural heritage, crafted meticulously in the esteemed Stellenbosch region. Handpicked from sustainably managed vineyards, the grapes undergo a gentle fermentation process in stainless steel vats to preserve their vibrant acidity and pristine flavours. Under the expert guidance of owner-vigneron Pieter Du Toit, each vintage reflects a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation. The Aasvoel 2018 showcases expressive notes of citrus and tropical fruits, complemented by subtle herbal undertones and a mineral-driven finish. Matured for twelve months, this elegantly structured wine offers exceptional depth and complexity, making it a distinguished choice for discerning connoisseurs. Blankbottle’s unwavering commitment to quality and terroir is evident in every bottle, ensuring the Aasvoel 2018 stands as a testament to their passion for fine winemaking. Ideal for both cellaring and immediate enjoyment, this exquisite wine promises a memorable sensory experience. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
€133.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2017 The Chocolate Block contains less Syrah than previous vintages: 64%, plus 14% Grenache, 11% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the Cabernet being the only variety that saw new oak. It was matured 16 months in used oak. The important factor is that there is not much more fruit sourced from the estate’s vines in Porseleinberg and the Goldmine Vineyards. It has a very well defined bouquet of blackberry, raspberry coulis, crushed rose petals, hints of orange peel and minerals. This is much more detailed and classic in style than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, and quite saline and spicy in the mouth . The fresh, quite pure finish lingers in the mouth. This is a very impressive wine, to the point where I feel that The Chocolate Block no longer reflects the style of the wine. It is a great achievement that this level of quality is achieved with 2,057 barrels of wine. Bravo. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
€166.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2017 The Chocolate Block contains less Syrah than previous vintages: 64%, plus 14% Grenache, 11% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier, the Cabernet being the only variety that saw new oak. It was matured 16 months in used oak. The important factor is that there is not much more fruit sourced from the estate’s vines in Porseleinberg and the Goldmine Vineyards. It has a very well defined bouquet of blackberry, raspberry coulis, crushed rose petals, hints of orange peel and minerals. This is much more detailed and classic in style than previous vintages. The palate is medium-bodied with sappy black fruit, a fine bead of acidity, and quite saline and spicy in the mouth . The fresh, quite pure finish lingers in the mouth. This is a very impressive wine, to the point where I feel that The Chocolate Block no longer reflects the style of the wine. It is a great achievement that this level of quality is achieved with 2,057 barrels of wine. Bravo. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 90 (VN) |
In Bond
€140.00 |
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Vinous (90)The 2021 The Chocolate Block had been bottled a month before my visit. The Grenache and Cinsault plus part of the Syrah comes from Boekenhoutskloof's own vines and the remainder from purchased fruit. It undergoes whole berry fermentation and aged for 14 months in French barriques and two oak foudres. This has a much more refined and focused bouquet than the Chocolate Blocks of yore, brambly black fruit mixed with pencil lead and undergrowth. Impressive delineation. The palate is medium-bodied with powdery tannins, well judged acidity, quite structured and sappy towards the finish. Fine length. |
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Coastal Region | 8 | 93 (TA) |
In Bond
€246.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 93 (TA) |
In Bond
€170.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (93)A skilfully blended and packaged wine that manages to shift large volumes at an extremely profitable price, The Chocolate Block is a clever assemblage of mostly Syrah from the Goldmine and Porseleinberg vineyards with 9% Grenache, 8% Cinsault, 5% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Viognier. Fleshy, perfumed and smooth, it has sweet goji berry and summer pudding fruit, velvety tannins, scented cinnamon oak and a fresh, lifted finish. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (VN) |
In Bond
€115.00 |
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Vinous (93)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (VN) |
In Bond
€315.00 |
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Vinous (93)The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€217.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)The nose on this outstanding wine reminds me of an elite Cabernet from another part of the world – Frankland River in Western Australia. There is more than a hint of ‘Houghton Jack Mann’ on the perfume and palate of this wine’s sensational 25th-anniversary release. Underpinning the profoundly deep black fruit notes is a sense of earthiness and energy that allows the blackberry and blackcurrant flavours to soar. With 70% new French oak on board, which has been folded away perfectly into the heart of this mighty wine, there is an extra dimension of flavour here thanks to the addition of a soupcon of Cabernet Franc. Only a handful of South African wines manage to capture this noble grape’s true essence while maintaining a compelling sense of stylishness. 2020 CSF does this in spades and it will continue to do so for two decades. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 91 (VN) |
In Bond
€115.00 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Sémillon, which has a 3% splash of Muscat of Alexandria, is made with an oxidative winemaking approach. It has a neutral nose, one where I would have liked more Sémillon character to poke through even at this early stage. The palate shows much more potential, presenting lovely lemon curd, toffee apple and white chocolate notes. The acidity is nicely judged, although that toffee note makes me wonder exactly how this will age. A second bottle showed less conspicuous toffee-ish notes and was much more in line with how I expect the wine to show. My score is based on this bottle. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
In Bond
€89.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow! |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (TA) |
In Bond
€250.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (99)Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow! |
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Coastal Region | 7 | 96 (TA) |
In Bond
€225.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)Boekenhoutskloof's world-class Semillon uses grapes from three distinct blocks in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, combining these with 3% Muscat d'Alexandrie. Showing more acidity and restraint than the stunning 2020, and less of the struck match character, it has notes of lemongrass, custard and beeswax and a core of chiselled acidity. Needs more time. |
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Coastal Region | 12 | 19 (MJ) |
In Bond
€225.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19)This ancient vine Semillon (with its hints of blushing Muscat) has never looked more alluring. The expansive but slender chassis gives way to a brittle, teasing finish, and the floral, silver needle, and jasmine notes are overwhelmingly rhythmic and hypnotic. 2022 Boek Sem experience is like no other Semillon on earth. |
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Coastal Region | 10 | 91 (VN) |
In Bond
€249.00 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon contains 4% Cabernet Franc and sees 18 months in 60% new French oak. It has a more Bordeaux-like aromatic profile than its Franschhoek counterpart, scents of cedar and mint infusing the blackberry and raspberry fruit. The oak is nicely integrated here. The palate is medium-bodied with grainy tannins and plump blackberry and raspberry fruit laced with clove and touches of violet. It finishes in much more Cape style, with fennel and a hint of aniseed lingering on the aftertaste. This just shows more personality and complexity than the Franschhoek Cabernet Sauvignon this year. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 18.5+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€248.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (18.5+)Plush and packed with cassis, this is a tremendously flashy wine with deep wells of liqueur-like fruit coupled with strident oak and a lovely bright, dry finish. Yearning to be set free, BCSS is like a prize-fighter itching for the bell so it can launch itself at its opponent. This is an amazing Cabernet and while it has the stuffing to go deep into the later rounds, I love its toned flanks and glistening musculature right now. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (PG) |
In Bond
€274.00 |
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Platter's South African Wine Guide (97)(Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year) Power & precision combine in stellar 2019. Ripe black cherry fruit with lifted perfume notes (dab of cab franc, as Franschhoek sibling), fine integrated tannins & fresh, lithe appeal. 75% new French oak adds to muscular richness completing a very fine wine. 5 parcels in Helderberg, Polkadraai & Faure. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | 18.5+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€446.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (18.5+)Bold, ripe, juicy and swaggering, this roguish Pauillac-dimensioned wine counterpoints the grace and elegance of its sibling Cab with visible definition rippling through its garments. There is harmony from the off, which, again, belies its age, further demonstrating that bigger, more showy styles can still be crafted with innate balance if you have the skills, and the Dastardly Duo can do this with their eyes shut. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€197.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)I have never forgotten the 2000 vintage of this wine, which I wrote up in one of my books many moons ago. In the blink of an eye, the perfume on this 2018 vintage took me back to that great wine and while this label has been known to wander off into the forest in certain vintages, it is back with a brooding bang and loaded with Hermitage-like malevolence in 2018. With a melange of both red and black fruit tones and considerable aromatic lift on the nose, this is a Syrah with its feet firmly planted in the earth while its head is in the clouds such is the scale and majesty of its posture. Like the other reds in this vintage, the oak integration is near perfect and this allows the fruit to sing. If there is one wine to drink before the other reds, then this is it, and while it might be a criminal offence to drink this wine so young, I am sure you will break the law for a flavour as enthralling and all-encompassing as this one. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 97 (TA) |
In Bond
€209.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (97)The wine that launched the modern Syrah revolution in South Africa, even if it's sourced from two sites in the Swartland these days, rather than Somerset West. Almost indecently perfumed and alluring, this is a very immediate wine that will also reward cellaring. Sweet spices, red berry fruit, fine, savoury tannins and just a hint of oak with energetic acidity. 2023-31 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 19+ (MJ) |
In Bond
€199.00 |
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Matthew Jukes (19+)With 90% of the fruit coming from Porseleinberg and 10% from Goldmine, both in Swartland, this is a wondrous wine with more detail and finesse than any preceding vintage. Utilising only large foudre, the spice and fruit aromatics are as pure and evocative as I have encountered in a Cape Syrah. While the flavour palette is more deep purple than black-fruited, there is no obvious oak intervention and this allows the fruit to soar. Sanguineous and sappy on the finish, this is a glorious red wine with elemental animal notes interwoven with silky ribbons of beautifully ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and plum flavours. With the same texture and volume of fruit as a Vosne-Romanée, this is a regal creation that distances itself from the meat and muscle often found in sun-loving Syrahs! |
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Coastal Region | 7 | 97 (TA) |
In Bond
€225.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (97)Given that 90% of its raw material comes from Porseleinberg - the other 10% comes from Boekenhoutskloof's Roundstone property - it's no surprise that this is such an impressive Syrah. Fermented with 65% whole bunches, it combines fynbos, lavender and Asian spice aromas with a palate of white pepper, barbecued meat, oregano and blackberry framed by sappy, granular tannins. World class. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 98 (TA) |
In Bond
€393.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (98)I’m making this for Syrah fanatics”, says Reenen Borman. Lucky them is all I can say, because this is another stunning release from a brilliant young winemaker. Intense, granitic and spicy, with lovely lavender and garrigue aromas, layers of dark, inky fruit, stylish oak and amazing length. What more do you want from a Syrah? 2020-30 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€465.00 |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 94 (VN) |
In Bond
€96.00 |
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Vinous (94)The 2018 Epilogue Syrah, which is 30% whole bunch fermented and matured for 13 months in 20% new 400-litre oak barrels, has an outstanding, very well defined bouquet with pure black cherries, boysenberry, iodine and violet aromas that are very expressive. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little gamey in style, touches of fennel and white pepper, leading to a caressing, velvety finish very classy. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€393.00 |
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The benchmark cuvée from the exceptionally talented Reenen Borman, at the helm of this mythical estate since 2010 - this wine is spoken about in hushed tones amongst experts, critics.
More Info
50% whole-bunch fermentation has given the wine monolithic structure, without a single brick out of place. 25% of the wine was raised in 400 litre oak barrels, imparting gentle seasoning and further fine tannins, whilst the remaining 75% was raised in concrete eggs, preserving the fruit's sensational freshness and impossible purity. Naturally, this wine is infantile due to its quality and structure, but already it displays a mesmeric mélange of violets, dried flowers, herbs and spices on the nose. Positively quivering with energy at this stage, the wine’s acidity shoots like Artemis’ arrow across the palate, losing no momentum through the endless finish. It is hard to overstate the juddering quality of Epilogue – Tim Atkin MW said of the 2017 that it was “now established as one of the Cape’s great Syrahs”... It is now one of the world’s greatest wines. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
€115.00 |
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