Critics Ratings

‘The latest release is the 2012 MR de Compostella, which this year is a blend of 28% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Malbec, 18% Petit Verdot and 10% Merlot, each grape variety assessed blind after one year in barrel before the final blend was made. In total it spent 22 months in barrel of which one-third is new French oak, the remainder second and third-fill. It has an exquisite bouquet with mineral-laden dark berries and cassis fruit that come across so natural and refined. Who said South Africa cannot do elegance? The palate is very well defined, supple and cohesive with just a touch of white pepper that lend tension and verve on the finish. This is one of the best vintages I have tasted...so far. Exceptional.’ - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 96/100 (Oct 2014)

'Never shy and always a real charmer, the 2012 does what it says on the tin and then a whole lot more. Rich, cool, dark fruited opulent nose full of blueberry, vanilla pod, black currant and cassis leaf. So sumptuous, generous in fruit and utterly charming while retaining a distinguished air of quality. Always been a lovely wine and I suspect there is not a lot of it around now as it is such a seductive wine that’s hard to resist drinking in its youth. Drink now or bury in your cellar for another 10+ years.' - Greg Sherwood MW, 96+/100

'Masterly 2012 maintains recent form in 5-way cab franc-dominated (just) Bordeaux blend. Waves of black fruit, soft cedar & perfumed spice, velvety tannins, polish, vanilla – all with wonderful texture & length at the finish. Benchmark Cape wine.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2015, 4.5*

‘A blend of 28% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon, 21% Malbec, 18% Petit Verdot and 10% Merlot, this is a big, bold and powerful wine, with superb balance and a firm, concentrated structure that promises great long-term aging. Dense aromas and flavors of blackberry, boysenberry, cherry and fig are layered with notes of cocoa powder, roasted espresso bean and cigar tobacco. Ripe, rich and lush, but not overdone, hints of charred oak and black pepper linger on the finish. Drink 2018–2025.’ - Lauren Buzzeo, Wine Enthusiast, 94/100

‘Big, broad and muscular, with dark currant, fig and blackberry paste flavors forming the core, while bittersweet cocoa and roasted savory details wait in the wings. A bolt of iron pushes through the finish. Just needs cellaring to round into form. Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot and Merlot. Best from 2016 through 2022.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 93/100 ( Feb 2015)

Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client