South Africa 2021

Tin Soldier is 100% Semillon Gris from a vineyard propagated from cuttings from the Paper Kite vineyard, and planted just eight years ago. It’s fermented on the skins, and is copper-coloured and stunningly complex. Notes of orange pith and fresh ginger swirl from the glass, while the palate is wonderfully saline and brilliantly long. A favourite, the 2020 is taking this wine to a whole new level.

A blend of 41% Grenache from the Voor Paardeberg, 30% Syrah from the Swartland and Stellenbosch, and 29% Bot River Mourvèdre, this is a juicy, fine boned red that shows lovely focus alongside notes of pepper, redcurrant, and pomegranate. A wine that shows just how talented John is: it shouldn’t be missed.

Originally made for John’s parents-in-law’s restaurant in the Drakensberg, in KwaZulu-Natal, we’re thrilled that he’s now allowed us to buy a little. This comes from different sources in the Overberg, and is a lovely Pinot Noir, with notes of fresh red berries, and plenty of silky tannins, herbal notes, and a long and savoury finish. A lovely addition to the range.

In 2020 this is a blend of 35% Semillon Blanc from a 38 year old vineyard in Franschhoek, 28% Roussanne from Stellenbosch & the Paardeberg, 16% Chardonnay from the Ceres Plateau, 15% Paardeberg Chenin Blanc from a 41 year old vineyard, and 6% Clairette Blanche from a 36 year old Swartland vineyard. The 2020 is a wine of elegance and refinement, with notes of honey and nettle, and lots of yellow fruit and greengage. Complex, delicious, and spectacular value.