South Africa 2021

The Syrah is as true an expression of this grape variety in the Swartland’s varied terroirs as you’ll find. In 2018, it’s a blend of four parcels planted in the stony Shale and Schist based soils of the Kasteelberg; two parcels of dry-land, bush vines grown in the decomposed Granite of the Paardeberg; and one on the rolling, iron-rich soils west of Malmesbury. The vines are aged between 22 and 30 years, and while delicious on first release, it’s a wine that will age impressively. There’s slightly less whole bunch this year, and it’s really open, grippy, and very fine.

From a plot in Franchhoek planted in 1932, there are just 5,000 bottles of the Franschhoek Old Vines Lötter Cinsault.

Chenin Blanc is grown on a 39-year-old Schist soil vineyard on Kasteelberg and a 43-year-old Granite soil vineyard on the Paardeberg, and the grapes are left to dry in the shade for 2-4 weeks following harvest. The resulting wine is remarkably pure and focussed. There’s a lemon character, with seville oranges and loads of spice all adding complexity. This is a brilliant sweet wine from Chris & Andrea Mullineux.

The Dry Red is inspired by the South African reds of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. At this time, wines labelled as Cabernet Sauvignon would frequently have a considerable proportion of Cinsault, and this is an equal blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Cinsault, and is a wine built for long ageing.

From a parcel planted in 1900, this is an incredible Cinsault of depth and power, and remarkable structure. Tiny quantities produced.

A blend of Chenin, Viognier, Verdelho, Semillon Gris and a few other grapes. A lovely nose that is saline and fine, with plenty of reduction. Really nice savoury finish. Punches above its weight