Organic/Biodynamic Wines
Online-Only Auction, 30 May - 13 June 2022
Session 1
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Reyneke is one of 5 Stellenbosch properties to get First Growth status in Tim Atkin's 2017 SA Report. Reyneke farm began in 1863 when it was then named 'Uitzicht', meaning 'view'. It is located overlooking Stellenbosch and False Bay with north, south and east facing slopes. Reyneke is certified organic and biodynamic and follows sustainable practices in everything they do. 'Their wines demonstrate the care they take, not infallible wines, rather honest and personality-driven wines that are distinctive, as much cerebral as sensory experiences,' says Neal Martin.
Biodynamic Certification
Farmed and made according to biodynamic practices, and certified by Demeter or Biodyvin. Based on the knowledge that the soil, plants, animals and farmers work together in one agricultural cycle. Only a certified organic producer can be considered for Biodynamic certification.
Demeter have rules on growing and vinification is stricter than organic certification – for example, less use of copper sulphate per hectare, and the requirement for natural yeasts for fermentation.
Similar to organic farming, biodynamic farming uses no synthetic fertilizers and pesticides. Biodynamic farming works to achieve soil health through the use of compost, animal and green manures; diversified crop rotations; and incorporation of livestock. However, the two agricultural systems differ in that biodynamic farmers rely on eight specific preparations for the soil, crops and compost to enhance soil and plant quality, and to stimulate the composting process. The eight preparations, designated by their ingredients or by numbers 500 to 507, are made from cow manure; silica; the flowers of yarrow, chamomile, dandelion and valerian; oak bark; and the stinging nettle plant. A ninth prep, often referred to as 508, is made from horsetail and is used for fungal disease.
Critics Ratings
2013 - ‘As always, 2013 from straight Sauvignon Blanc, naturally fermented in barrel. Exciting emergent complexity - jostling floral, citrus, blackcurrant notes along with evidence of the mostly new oak that should integrate. The austere element of 2011, the forwardness of 2012 (4.5 stars). Achingly long finish.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2015, 5*
‘Sourced from the south-facing Willow Springs block at Reyneke, this barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc wouldn’t look out of place in Pessac-Léognan. Smoky rich and complex with 60% malolactic fermentation adding extra texture, this doesn’t show its 60% new oak. Grapefruit, lanolin and a creamy mid-palate combine deliciously here. Drink: 2015-22.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2015, 95/100
2015 - ‘100% Sauvignon Blanc, 2015 shows much promise in its unusually expressive, ripe fig tones subtly softened by earthiness of native ferment in mostly new French oak. A sense of volume without heaviness in its satiny texture, and similar breadth of flavour concluding with neat tangy dryness.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2017, 4.5*
‘The Reserve White is made from “pockets of Sauvignon within a single vineyard”, according to Johan Reyneke. It’s a wine that transcends variety, that’s more about terroir than grape, showing power, richness, scented oak, creamy complexity and wonderful supporting acidity. Stunning. 2017-25.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2017, 96/100
2017 - ‘Elegant expression of Sauvignon Blanc in 2017, mostly new oak vs older wood for Biodynamic sibling. This a much more outgoing personality, with white peach, florals and lime, developing more yeasty almond nuances on palate. Both vibrant and quite textural courtesy lees contact.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2019, 4.5* (93/100)
‘This brilliant, barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc comes from the top part of the Willow Spring parcel and is the latest in a line of brilliant releases under this label. Saline, pithy and flinty with hints of nettle and elderflower, fine oak and a finish that goes on forever. 2019-27.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019, 96/100
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