Critics Ratings

‘ A very deep garnet-purple colour, the nose chimes with the beautiful aromatics of the Cabernet fruits, both Franc and Sauvignon. Superbly bright and lifted, this classy wine reveals attractive perfumed notes of cherry blossom, violets, lilacs and fresh rose petals underpinned by seductive chocolate coated red cherries, crème de cassis, sweet sappy sandalwood spice, bay leaves, fresh pencil shavings and crushed granite rocks. On the palate, the wine is more medium bodied but very refined striking an instant resemblance to the perfumed precision and seductive caressing texture of a Chateau Margaux first growth Bordeaux. There is power, there is intensity and there is focus aplenty but it is all delivered with such majestic elegance and finessed structure to be awe inspiring. Super fine and minerally tightly focused, the vivacious palate shows layers of cigar box, maraschino cherry, crushed black berries, cedar spice and fine-grained mineral sandy tannins. Already possessing incredible poise and focus, this wine shows clarity of purpose and an attention to detail very rarely seen on South African red wines. With little to no perceptible oak character, this impressive blend finishes with a very long, minerally accented persistence that is both compelling and incredibly pretty. A profound wine of beauty and certainly this winery’s most noteworthy release since its blockbuster 2015. Cellar for another 5 years from release and drink over the next 30+ years.’ - Greg Sherwood, 98+/100 (Aug 2019)

‘The price has taken a bit of a leap since the last release, but there's no denying the quality or track record of this exceptional Bordeaux red blend. Cabernet Franc-led, with Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot providing the supporting cast, this is a focused, youthful, appealingly self-assured red that combines fine-grained tannins, with scented 55% new wood and fine red berry, tobacco and blueberry fruit. 2022-29’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019, 96/100

‘Quite classic on the nose and palate, this is still a vibrant, youthful wine with much more to give. Weighty and concentrated on the palate, with vibrant dark-fruit notes. Fresh acidity, well-integrated oak and fine tannic structure; this will age very well. Refined and complex.' - Andy Howard MW, Decanter.com, 95/100 (Feb 2020)

'Iconic cab-driven, 5-way Bordeaux blend shows consummate craftsmanship. 2017 an uncompromising, visceral expression of earthy currants, with thumping tannins & muscular body, yet refined, pure & focused.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2020, 4.5*

Provenance

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