Bordeaux Theme

Live Virtual Auction, 17 September 2023

Bordeaux
  • Thelema; Rabelais; 2009; 6 (1 x 6); 750ml


Lot Estimate
ZAR 10 000 - 15 000

About this Item

2009 Rabelais
6 (1 x 6) 750ml

Thelema, the Greek word for ‘will’, was a charming dilapidated fruit farm until Gyles Webb came along and purchased the farm with the help of his wife’s family in 1983. Placed at the top of the Helshoogte Pass, Thelema is one of the highest and coolest estates in the area, its deep red soils make it ideal for premium quality wine grape production. At a time when the South African wine scene was focused on quantity rather than quality, Webb was a trailblazing pioneer on a mission to craft world-class wines. Construction began on the winery in 1987, and Thelema produced its first vintage in 1988. Winemaking since 2000 has been in the capable hands of Rudi Schultz, with Gyles's son Thomas involved in running the business.

Winemaker's Notes: 'Rabelais is a blend of the best Bordeaux components within our Thelema range from the 2009 vintage. During our annual vintage review individual barrels are identified and earmarked for the Rabelais blend, which is complex, elegant and structured. Extraordinary concentrations of luscious dark berries and cedar wood on the nose complemented by a lovely sweet fruit character on the palate. The wine finishes long and firm. It will reward cellaring.'

Provenance

Restaurant Mosaic

Critics Ratings

‘Intense, darkly-fruited 2009 with classic Bordeaux markers of cassis, cedarwood & hints of liquorice. Mainly cab with 15% petit verdot & dab of merlot, powerful structure given breadth by expressive fruit & freshening acidity. Good for another decade. Even finer than 2008 (4.5 stars).’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2014, 5*

‘80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot and 5% Merlot. Alcohol: 14.59%. Some floral perfume before red and black fruit and pencil shavings. Excellent fruit concentration, fresh acidity and fine tannins – smooth textured in the best sense. Full but balanced, this is showing very well right now.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 92/100 (Jul 2018)

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