Critics Ratings

‘Pure & subtle 2017, like 2016 (5 stars, 95 pts), skilfully constructed & precise, showcasing variety’s positive attributes. Floral, medium bodied & fresh, clever oaking (16 months, 10% new) allows black cherry fruit to take centre stage.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2019, 4.5* (93/100)

‘Made from 20-year-old bush vines on a south facing False Bay vineyard on washed out granitic soils utilising around 40% whole bunch during fermentation. The aromatics show a cool, savoury red cherry fruited complexity with plenty of maritime sea breeze salinity, sappy cranberry and bramble berry fruits, sweet grilled herbs and hints of potpourri. The palate is exceptionally polished, tight knit and fine grained with a drying tannin density, bright citric acids and a cool, stony, mineral length with a tangy salinity on the finish. Another very accomplished expression from Bruwer Raats and Gavin Bruwer Slabbert.’ – Greg Sherwood MW, 93/100 (Oct 2021)

‘Ripe, vivid red fruit with spicy notes and excellent fragrance and lift. Clean, refreshing and crunchy – gets the best from the variety.’ – Richard Hemming MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17/20 (Sep 2018)

‘Gavin Slabbert uses grapes from two granite-based parcels in the Polkadraai sub-region to make this juicy, sappy, appealingly refreshing Pinotage. Crunchy red berry and bramble fruit meld seamlessly with the scented oak. 2020-27’ - Tim Atkin SA Special Report 2019, 93/100

‘Restrained and focused aromas of bramble, violets and vanilla. Clean and pure, harmonious, with firm tannins and a refreshing acidity.’ – Decanter.com, 91/100 (Dec 2021)

‘30% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting 14 months in French oak, 10% new. The nose shows red and black cherries, plums, a little earthiness, cinnamon and other spice. The palate is relatively round and smooth textured. Well balanced and very flavourful, this remains a cleverly toned down take on the variety.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 91/100 (Jan 2020)

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