Prestigious Family Wineries
Live Virtual Auction, 23 July 2023
Prestigious family wineries | Thelema Mountain Vineyards, Raats Family Wines and Savage Wines
About this Item
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.
The mint-laced section of the traditional Cabernet Sauvignon has been produced separately since 2004 and has received a cult following since.
Critics Ratings
'The famous 'green' note off this vineyard works in subtle harmony with the more forward, obviously charming fruit of this version in 2008. Big tannic structure happily incorporated into firm flesh. Will keep well.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2011, 4.5*
‘The 2008 The Mint Cabernet Sauvignon was raised in 50% new French oak for 18 months and it does what it says on the tin with precocious scents of mint and cedar. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple, pure entry with plush ripe red-berried fruit, very well integrated oak and a silky smooth, caressing finish. This is a classy Stellenbosch Cabernet that should age well. Drink now-2018.’ - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 92/100 (Aug 2011)
‘There's no doubt as to why they call this wine “The Mint,” as the first whafts of the bouquet provide an unquestionable mentholated aroma with a backdrop of black plum and currant fruit. Glimmers of crushed violet petals and mocha develop in the silky mouth, with the fine well-integrated tannins sticking through the lingering close. Enjoyable now but cellar-worthy for another couple of years.’ - Lauren Buzzeo, Wine Enthusiast, 91/100
‘Bright red-ruby. Blackberry, bitter chocolate and violet on the nose, with the typical peppermint element of this bottling. Dense and deep but youthfully tight, with suave black fruit and mint flavors supported by harmonious acidity and a strong tannic spine. As young as it is, it's seamless from the start. A classic vintage for this wine, but it needs time in bottle.’ - Stephen Tanzer, Vinous, 91+/100 (Mar 2011)
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