Critics Ratings

‘Grown on sandstone soils at 500 metres, this is a co-fermentation of Grenache with 26% Cinsault and 13% Syrah, showing the freshness that's typical of wines from Piekenierskloof. Sappy and savoury, with nice grip, very little oak influence, summer pudding fruit and a taut, stony finish. 2022-27’– Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2020, 94/100

‘The 2019 Thief In the Night is a blend of 61% Grenache, 26% Cinsault and 13% Syrah, aged in a 3,400-liter conical foudre for 10 months and including 20% whole bunch. It has a well-defined nose of brambly red fruit, wilted rose petals and light loamy scents, touches of white pepper and clove emerging with time. The palate is medium-bodied with fine definition and a silver bead of acidity. Taut and precise toward the finish, which is reminiscent of a top-drawer Cornas.’ – Neal Martin, Vinous, 94/100 (Apr 2021)

‘Exploding from the glass with heady, high-toned red fruit, the 2019 Thief in the Night is an immediate success. Chiseled from a blend of 61% Grenache, 26% Cinsault and 13% Syrah, waves of aromas seduce the nose. Opening to wild strawberry, black cherry skin and juicy red plum, with hints of potpourri spice, dusty rose petals, hints of leather and black spice in the glass, the wine is aromatically stunning. Medium-bodied, with medium weight, the palate is full in volume of expression while remaining in the red-berry flavor profile. It showcases a tight mineral tension and black tea tannins that will allow this wine to age for more than a decade. It actually reminds me of Walla Walla Valley Grenache. Continuing to unfold and unpack layers of expression, the finish lingers for more than a minute. An absolute stunner, this 13.5% alcohol wine is gorgeous in every sense. Run, don’t walk to put this in your cellar!’ – Anthony Mueller, Wine Advocate, 93+/100 (Feb 2021)

‘Co-fermented grenache, cinsaut, syrah forge appetising & satisfying 2019. Bright spice, soft berry, smoked meat medley spread comfortably & lengthily to a savoury, very moreish conclusion. A go-to for any occasion. 20% wholebunch, older oak 10 months.’ – Platter's SA Wine Guide 2021, 4.5* (94/100)

Provenance

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