Bordeaux Theme
Live Virtual Auction, 26 March 2023
Bordeaux Fine Wine
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
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.
Critics Ratings
'There are a handful of producers that can make excellent wine from the variety, Thelema in Stellenbosch being one of them.' - Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za
'Unusually in the Cape, a variety that rivals Cabernet; from only 2 blocks on the property, 18 months French oak, 30% new. Always stylish, impressively firm, rewards a few years ageing. 2001 (with 14% Cab) has mulberry hues / aromas, arresting bitter chocolate, toasted fennel hints vie with meaty fullness, all ensconced in a blanket of ripe tannins.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2004, 4*
'Winy and taut right now, this has lots of red and black currant, cocoa and dark plum flavors in reserve, held in check by ripe tannins and fine acidity. Should flesh out nicely in the cellar. Darker, and without the minty note that has been the hallmark here in previous vintages. Drink now through 2006.' - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 90/100 (Dec 2003)
Provenance
Private Client
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