Critics Ratings

‘Densely packed, offering boysenberry, red currant paste, raspberry ganache and plum skin notes backed by accents of singed wood spice, licorice root and black tea. The roasted apple wood frame holds everything together. This should round into form soon enough. Shiraz, Mourvèdre, Grenache and Cinsault... 1,000 cases made.’ – Wine Spectator (June 2013), 92/100

‘Shiraz lead 09 (4.5*), with cinsault, grenache & mourvedré cosseted but large older oak. Seamless, restrained, understated. Similar styling to disarmingly fruity, delightfully savoury 08 – oh-so effortless, unforced. Does have a few grams of sugar.’ – Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2013, 4.5*

‘The 2009 Family Red Blend is aged in a 40-year old foudres. It has a ripe bouquet of mulberry, raspberry leaf and a touch of sea foam that is well defined. The palate is sweet and plush on the fleshy entry that caresses the senses: layers of sweet ripe strawberry and cherry fruit laced with white pepper. There is almost a honeyed richness towards the finish that demonstrates great persistency. Just delicious!

Adi Badenhorst is the charismatic winemaker who alongside Eben Sadie has put Swartland on the map. Outspoken, opinionated and talented, his charisma rubs off upon the wines he creates. Moreover, they are available at extremely affordable prices and serve as a perfect introduction to the delights of Adi’s and Swartland’s wines.’ – Neal Martin, Wine Advocate (December 2012), 92/100

‘(66% shiraz, 16% mourvedre, 14% grenache and 4% cinsault): Good full ruby-red. Highly complex, savory nose combines black raspberry, minerals, herbs, spices, dark chocolate and black olive. Plush, broad, saline and dry, with deep, mouthfilling flavors of raspberry, black olive, wild herbs and mocha. A wonderfully tactile, ripe blend with smooth tannins and lingering flavors of sexy red berries, pepper, herbs and spices. A superb showing.’ – Stephen Tanzer, Vinous.com (May 2013), 92/100

Provenance

Wine Cellar