Rhône Theme
Timed Online Auction, 2 - 12 February 2024
Rhône | International & South African offering
About the SessionThe first sale of the 2024 Strauss & Co Fine Wine Auction calendar is an exciting Rhône valley and Rhône-style offering and has fast-become one of the most popular at Strauss & Co Fine Wine Auctions.
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About this Item
With a rich history that dates back to 1692, Hartenberg has passed through the legendary families of Finlayson and Gilbey until the late Ken Mackenzie purchased the estate in 1987. Situated in its own self-contained valley on the slopes of the Bottelary Hills in Stellenbosch, the terroir is renowned for fine quality and ageability. CWG member Carl Schultz has presided as the head winemaker for over 25 years and has produced world class, powerful reds.
The 170-hectare property has a pure water source running through it, and a number of birds and animals which call Hartenberg their home. As such, the owners and staff have accepted responsibility for the conservation of the property through considered and sustainable use of all natural resources. They have various initiatives in place to ensure an environment where nature thrives.
This Shiraz from clay soils was made in honour of Ken Mackenzie, who preferred Shiraz over all reds. Tall and thin, with long legs, he served as a Spitfire pilot in WW2 and was affectionately known as the ‘Stork’.
Critics Ratings
‘The Stork is usually more perfumed and refined than Gravel Hill, but there's a density and concentration to the wine in 2015 that's unusual. Smooth, plush and fynbos-scented, this is further proof that this was a very vintage for Rhône varieties, combining texture and tannins with acidity. 2021-32.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019. 95/100
‘Deeply perfumed, with white pepper nuance on 2015 Shiraz from clay-rich soils. Less oak and longer skin contact than flagship imparts supple tannins and elegant restraint. Lovely fruit purity and similar refinement in this fine vintage to 2014 (93 pts), but even more potential.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2019, 4.5* (94/100)
'On the nose, some smoky reduction to go with attractive oak-derived notes plus black and blue fruit as well as pepper. The palate, meanwhile, is sweet, rich and smooth textured (alcohol: 14.29%). The extraordinary fruit density will impress some while the lack of refreshment value will vex others.' - Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 91/100 (Aug 2019)
Provenance
Wine Cellar Private Client
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