Critics Ratings

'Showing a little bit of earthy, savoury, coffee bean, leathery evolution on the nose, the palate is still taut and vital with savoury red and black berry fruits, a fine line of acidity and a long finish of graphite and mineral dust. Perhaps a bit shut down now but another one to watch into the future.' - Greg Sherwood MW, 95/100

‘Returns to Cabernet Franc dominance (52%) in superb 5-way Bordeaux red blend, but 2011 follows standout 2009 (5 stars) in style. Polished and elegant dense black fruit with whiffs of violets, cedar, cassis, beautifully handled tannins and promising, gritty length. Shyer, and earlier released than normal, deserves more time.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2014, 4.5*

‘The 2011 MR de Compostella comes from separately vinified parcels that are assessed blind after 12 months, the highest rated barrels spending another 12 months in wood, a tripartite mixture of new, one and two-year-old oak. It has a seductive bouquet that is beautifully defined: blackberry, raspberry and blueberry fruit wrapped up in judicious new oak and hints of cedar and sandalwood that come through with time. The palate is medium-bodied with crisp red berries, soy and hints of spice. It is perfectly controlled with more finesse on the finish than the twenty odd South African samples I tasted before this. To sum up this wine in two words: world class. Ignore at your own risk.’ - Neal Martin, Wine Advocate, 95/100 (Oct 2013)

‘This world-class blend of 52% Cabernet Franc, 20% Malbec, 13% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Merlot and 6% Petit Verdot is concentrated, structured and powerful, with the promise of a long life ahead. Earthy, herbal streaks of cigar box, licorice root, char and minty fynbos frame the lush fruit core of muddled boysenberry, black raspberry, plum and currant. The palate is bold and assertively flavored, with good evolution from jammy black fruit to earthy spice and finally leather and toast on the finish. Drink 2018–2024.’ - Lauren Buzzeo, Wine Enthusiast, 94/100

‘Aromatic, with black tea, smoldering tobacco and charcoal embers lending a lilting side to this well-sculpted, densely layered wine, which sports a core of crushed plum, currant paste and braised fig fruit. Delivers lots of loam on the finish, staying pure, with serious cut. A dead ringer for a top St.-Emilion on gravel soils. Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petit Verdot. Best from 2014 through 2024.’ - James Molesworth, Wine Spectator, 93/100 (Oct 2013)

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