south africa's cool-climate whites and ......levels and fermenting their whites bone-dry, very...

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https://www.jamessuckling.com/ James Suckling der bekannte US Wein-Journalist schreibt ausführlich und treffend über die Südafrikanische Weinindustrie. Er besuchte Südafrika im Mai, degustiert über 500 Weine und gibt seine Bewertungen ab. Das alles auf English mit allen Bewertungen in diesem Dokument. Viel Spass beim Lesen – Die gelb markierten Weine finden Sie in unserem Sortiment: https://shop.kapweine.ch/

SOUTH AFRICA'S COOL-CLIMATE WHITES AND SCORCHING REDS: WHY THE COUNTRY HAS IT ALL

The 93-point Rijk’s Chenin Blanc Tulbagh Reserve 2014 is a full-bodied and

layered white that boasts fruity aromas and lively acidity.

South Africa is on its game for white wines

Wine lovers, take note: South Africa is on its game for white wines! The country’s

whites are now deserving of every wine consumer’s attention, not least for the

excellent value they have to offer.

https://shop.kapweine.ch

mailto:[email protected]

https://www.jamessuckling.com/

https://shop.kapweine.ch/

https://www.jamessuckling.com/




As James and I tasted through almost 500 wines from the country in May this

year, we could not help but be amazed as one outstanding flight followed the

next of chenin blanc, chardonnay and even sauvignon blanc.

Until only too recently, much of the white grapes grown in the Cape found their

way into bulk wine, brandy production or, at most, catered solely to the whims of

the market. While the majority of South African wine is still not exported in bottle,

the premium sector is following a formula to a tee, harvesting with high acidity

levels and fermenting their whites bone-dry, very rarely overdoing the oak.

“We’ve become much more precise in our white wine production, but it all starts

in the vineyard,” says Anton du Toit of Rhebokskloof estate. “Here at our winery

in Paarl, we have decided sauvignon blanc just doesn’t work, so we’ve pulled it

out. In the past, we would plant according to what the market wanted; often in

the wrong place. Now, we try to grow chenin, for example, only on sites where

the grape can keep its natural minerality.”

In fact, the whites are so dependable that if in doubt, a safer bet would be

choosing them over the reds. South African cabernets and Bordeaux blends in

particular, usually from hotter areas, can have the tendency to slip into

slightly overripe or overworked territory.

It’s almost counterintuitive that the only serious wine-producing country in Africa

— the continent better known for its arid deserts and barren savannas — should

be outdoing itself with its white wines.

A new wave of cool-climate reds are leading the way

What’s more, some of the exciting red wines are now being made in indisputably

cool-climate areas, most of them are barely a few decades old.

“I think it’s a perception thing,” explains Jason Snell of The Drift, a wine estate

making fabulous pinot noir and syrah in the up-and-coming Overberg district.



https://www.rhebokskloof.co.za/

https://thedrift.co.za/




The mountainous region begins roughly 70km southeast of Cape Town on the

Cape South Coast. “People think all of South Africa is hot, but this is far from the

case. We’re at 450m above sea level, embraced by the side of a mountain, and

the cool breeze from the Atlantic comes right over the top every morning at

about 10 o’clock. Here, we usually place ourselves somewhere between Burgundy

and Bordeaux in terms of climate.”

Why South Africa is not as hot as you think for cool-climate

varieties

At 33.9° S latitude, Cape Town shares the same distance from the equator with

parts of Morocco and Algeria. Yet, studies consistently put Overberg into the

region II band within the Winkler Index, a widely used system for classifying wine-

growing climates according to the total heat over the growing season (growing

degree days). In short, this means comparisons to cooler temperate areas in the

Old World are not mere hyperbole.

The influence of the southeasterly wind on the entire Western Cape cannot be

overstated. It’s ultimately caused by the confluence of the Agulhas current and

Benguela current from Antarctica. The heat gradient between the land and sea

and resulting pressure differences in the lower atmosphere produce a moist

breeze with a cooling effect of up to 7°C. Its extent diminishes rapidly as you

move further inland.






Hemel-en-Aarde: still a benchmark region for pinot and

chardonnay

Hamilton Russell Vineyards one of Africa’s most southerly wine estates, situated

close to the ocean in the appellation of Hemel-en-Aarde. Photo credits: Hamilton

Russell Vineyards.

One of the most exposed areas to this phenomenon is Hemel-en-Aarde. Thanks

to the pioneering efforts of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, the region — formerly

part of the larger Overberg district but now a ward of Walker Bay — has been

famous for some time now. The valley opens up just 1.5km from the ocean, and

its narrow sides help to channel the maritime airflow.

Hamilton Russell’s pinots and chardonnays, crafted in a fine, savory style that

wouldn’t go amiss in the Cote de Nuits, are still a highlight of our annual South

African tasting. On a par with them is Bouchard Finlayson, which produces fine,

Burgundy-inspired bottlings, as well as the sensational pinot noir/sangiovese

blend Hannibal. Newton Johnson is another producer to watch and catching up

quickly with their pinot noir and a very succulent GSM blend.

Why Elgin’s flinty, zesty chardonnays are worth buying

Neighboring Elgin, up to the ‘80s solely a focus for fruit farmers, is predominantly

planted to sauvignon blanc. However, we were particularly impressed by the

chardonnays. The high-altitude yet coastal district is completely enclosed by the



http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com/estate/

http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com/estate/

http://www.hamiltonrussellvineyards.com/

https://winesofelgin.co.za/




Hottentots Holland Mountains, and the average summer temperature reaches a

mere 20°C. The likes of Richard Kershaw Wines, Lothian Vineyards and Paserene

— the latter is a project of Martin Smith who previously worked at Vilafonte —

are all making edgy chardonnays with a characteristic stony undertone. They are

worth seeking out.

Traditional areas such as Constantia are also making excellent

cool-climate wines

Meanwhile, Constantia remains proof that not all of South Africa’s cool-climate

regions are part of a new wave of wine production. Salty gusts have battered the

vines here on the Cape Peninsula for over three centuries.

“You’ve got to be very attentive working with these maritime conditions in

Constantia,” affirms Du Toit Hoffman of Eagles’ Nest winery. “The winds can be so

strong that the vines might even get knocked over, and then there’s the risk of

disease from the dampness.” Cape vintners will tell you that, if anything,

achieving ripeness can be more of a problem than overripeness in more marginal

areas.



http://richardkershawwines.co.za/

https://www.lothianvineyards.com/

https://www.paserene.com/

https://www.vilafonte.com/

https://eaglesnestwines.com/




A fourth-generation family wine estate, Kanonkop is located on the lower slopes

of the Simonsberg Mountain in the Stellenbosch region of the Cape. Photo

credits: Kanonkop Estate.

While the ancient sweet wine recipes of Klein and Groot Constantia are longtime

winners (95 points and 93 points respectively this year), we found some of the dry

whites a little herbaceous and tart. With that said, we are very enthusiastic about

the Bordeaux blends and syrahs being made here — especially on the less shady

and warmer sites where the Constantia mountain turns towards Table Mountain.

Stellenbosch’s top subregions of Helderberg and Simonsberg

impress

Of course, more traditional areas such as Stellenbosch do get very hot in the

summer months. Even so, South Africa’s wine epicenter doesn’t tend to suffer the

same heat spikes that say Napa Valley does, let alone Tuscany. Topography,

distance from the coastline and site exposure play a huge role in the region as

south-facing vineyards capture much more of the sea breeze.

The warmer, inland Simonsberg-Stellenbosch mountain ward produced our best

pinotage this year from Kanonkop (95 points) and excellent riper chenin blends,

including Laurens Campher from Muratie (93 points). For cooler top regions,

Helderberg continues to differentiate itself, particularly with syrah blends such as

Post House and Anwilka.

The Swartland is making some of the most exciting wines in

South Africa with fresh, terroir-driven syrah and chenin blanc

On the subject of syrah — a variety that we overall believe to be South Africa’s

most exciting one — no article on Cape wine would be complete without

catching up on the developments in Swartland.



https://www.kanonkop.co.za/

http://www.kleinconstantia.com/

https://www.grootconstantia.co.za/

https://www.kanonkop.co.za/

https://www.muratie.co.za/

http://www.helderbergwinery.com/




Mullineux’s primary focus is on bottling syrah and chenin according to soil type,

maintaining it has the greatest influence on terroir in the Swartland.

The situation is anything but cool-climate. The rolling hills of wheat, occasionally

punctuated by small, mountainous outcrops that nest oases viable for viticulture,

are torrid and unforgiving. Average summer temperatures top 25°C. Yet, the best

wines here always show quite unexpected vibrancy and purity.

Unlike elsewhere, the ocean offers little respite to the hot, continental landscape.

Instead, it all comes down to the skill of some of the country’s most talented

winemakers, who are now refining their skills with syrah and chenin after the so-

called “Swartland Revolution.”

“For sun protection, the bush-vines act as umbrellas, protecting the grapes from

most angles,” says Andrea Mullineux, who with her husband Chris made some of

the highest-scoring wines in our report this year. “With the trellised vineyards, we

keep more leaves around the fruiting zone to prevent sunburn. We also don’t

work the vineyards in the heat of midday, unless it is for weed removal.”



https://mlfwines.com/mullineux/about-us/our-story/




The paradox is that though water is scant and the soil delicate and poor, it’s the

most decrepit, dry-farmed bush vines that bear the best fruit here. Their low-

yielding, gnarled trunks cling to some of the most timeworn rock formations in

the world.

“Old vines are the survivors. If a vineyard can live for 50 to 80 or more years

without irrigation in our weather conditions, you know it is happy, healthy and

balanced… Planting on the contours [i.e. laterally rather than down a slope] will

slow water runoff allowing it to saturate the ground in the winter months. This

also conserves the topsoil as the Swartland (and South Africa) has some of the

oldest viticultural soils in the world, so they are very fragile.”

Watch out Australia, South Africa is catching up!

A special handwritten note on the bottle of Bob’s Pinotage Western Cape 2016

that we tasted. We hope to see you soon, Bob!

No doubt a fine-tuning of viticulture and experimentation is afoot across the

Cape. While the whites are starting to show real consistency, the quality of the

reds seems to be slightly more uneven — but more spectacular when producers

get it right.






South Africa might lag behind its natural competitors such as Australia and South

America for now, but it’s important to remember how young the modern wine

industry really is.

The once all-powerful KWV cooperative only ended its quota system in 1992,

which heavily restricted varieties and their planting areas. Only at the turn of the

century was the leafroll virus, which hampers quality before ultimately killing a

vine, brought under control. And of course, then there was the demise of the

apartheid regime in 1994.

“The best sites for vineyards are the ones being planted now,” contends Anton du

Toit. “So, imagine what will happen years from now when those vines reach full

maturity.”

Jason Snell of The Drift agrees: “South Africa has to be more regional. We should

be known for Stellenbosch, or we should be known for Elgin or we should be

known for the Swartland. The hottest vintage ever in Stellenbosch was the coolest

vintage ever in Elgin even though it’s just on the other side of the mountain. We

have to find the variety that suits each individual place. I think our grandchildren

will know our lands best.” — Contributing Editor Jack Suckling



http://www.kwv.co.za/




TASTING NOTES

KANONKOP PINOTAGE SIMONSBERG-STELLENBOSCH SINGLE VINEYARD 2016

Country South Africa

Region Coastal Region

Vintage 2016

Score

95

There's quite an explosion of blueberry compote and

roasted chestnuts, but everything is very well judged and

fresh. Hints of iodine, bark, undergrowth, cinnamon bun and

hot stones. The palate holds together a mesh of layered

fruit, which is woven in by strong yet versatile tannins that

glide this forward to a long, very juicy finish. You'll either

love or hate this, but it's real pinotage all right. Drink in

2022.

KLEIN CONSTANTIA CONSTANTIA VIN DE CONSTANCE NATURAL SWEET WINE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

95

Very ripe and heady nose of apricots and peach jam, straw,

dried honeysuckle, caramel, mango puree and candied

papaya. Somehow, it all remains fresh. Full and round on the

palate. Medium-sweet to sweet with medium acidity. A

dense, oily finish. One of the great sweet wines of South

Africa. Drink now or hold.

PORSELEINBERG SWARTLAND 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

95

A really perfumed nose of violets, jasmine and incense.

Nutmeg, cloves, Chinese spices, dark licorice and dark-

chocolate shavings to follow. Full body, grippy and grainy

tannins, vibrant acid drive and a long, chewy finish. A

granite and savory aftertaste. Really well done. Drink now or

hold.

ANWILKA STELLENBOSCH 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

94

A spicy and delicious nose of black peppers, charcuterie, ivy,

holly and lots of creme de cassis. Full body, ripe and juicy

tannins and a long, chewy finish. Loads of fruit and

character, but still restrained and refined. Drink in 2021. A

blend of 52% syrah and 37% cabernet sauvignon and 11%

petit verdot.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE HANNIBAL 2016


Region Cape South Coast

Vintage 2016

Score

94

Always one of our favorites. This shows leather, dried rose

petals, spice box, red licorice, nutmeg and baking spices

with hints of cloves. The palate is succulent and delicious.

Really punctuated by the bright acidity that seeps through

layers of red fruit and dried-flower undertones. Polished,

pretty tannins and a long finish. A blend of sangiovese,






pinot noir, nebbiolo, shiraz, mourvedre and barbera. Drink

now or hold.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON PINOT NOIR HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE GALPIN PEAK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

94

This is really lovely, showing aromas of caramelized lemon

peel, cloves, jasmine, eucalyptus, raspberry cheesecake and

darker elements of black plums and cherries. The serving of

the fruit on the palate is impressive, but it's all so well

contained by the encompassing acidity and silky tannins. A

long finish. Drink now or hold.

CONSTANTIA GLEN CONSTANTIA FIVE 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

94

Cassis, violets, jasmine, plum liqueur, cinnamon stick, vanilla,

baking spices and sugar plums, as well as fresh nuances of

basil, cacao and nutmeg. Full body with lots of lovely dark

and blue fruit for its age, which are well supported by the

juicy tannins. Finishes long. Drink in 2020. A blend of 29%

cabernet sauvignon, 29% cabernet franc, 20% merlot, 16%

petit verdot and 6% malbec.

DE MORGENZON CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

94

A very pronounced nose of mangoes, papaya, dried

apricots, dried honeysuckle and peach pit. Medium to full

body, but it's the acidity that really lifts this through

beautifully to the very long yet taut finish. A wonderful

combination of raw fruit power and finesse. Drink now.

GABRIËLSKLOOF SYRAH WESTERN CAPE ON SANDSTONE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

94

This has all the black-pepper, meat and blackberry aromas

you would expect, but it combines these with more nuanced

notes of iodine, granite and quartz. Dried herbs and flowers,

too. Full-bodied and really polished with fine-grained

tannins and a zippy, tangy finish. Drink now or hold.

HAMILTON RUSSELL CHARDONNAY HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

94

A really stylish white with white stones, dried apricots, white

blossoms, lemon curd, jasmine and caramelized citrus peel.

Medium to full body, some really nice phenolic texture, very

zesty acidity and an pinpoint finish. Drink now.






KANONKOP SIMONSBERG-STELLENBOSCH PAUL SAUER 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

94

A pronounced but very vivid nose of blackberries, dried

mint, eucalyptus, chamomile, light mulberries and baking

spices. Full body, ripe yet very structured tannins and a fine

streak of acidity. A long, chewy finish. Drink in 2021. A blend

of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and cabernet franc.

MOUNT SUTHERLAND SYRAH SUTHERLAND-KAROO OUBERG 2013


Region Northern Cape

Vintage 2013

Score

94

Far from your average South African syrah. This shows really

fresh black plums and cherries on the nose, as well as fresh

hay and granite. On the palate, it shows real verve and style,

showcasing driven acidity and firm, structured tannins. A

long, spicy finish that remains taut and fresh. Drink in 2021.

MULLINEUX CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND GRANITE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

94

This is extremely complex on the nose with aromas of sliced

dried apples and peaches. Hints of honey. Full body, layered

and powerful yet dry and focused. Such composure and

focus. Drink now.

MULLINEUX SYRAH SWARTLAND IRON 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

94

Spice box, blueberry compote and blackberry puree. Hot

stones, vanilla, sweet meats and incense follow and spring

out of the glass. The palate is very supple, all thanks to the

juicy tannins. And the tangy acidity lifts the blue fruit to a

long, chewy finish. Drink in 2020.

VILAFONTE PAARL SERIES M 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

94

The purity of fruit is really the attraction from outset here.

Shows notes of graphite, lead pencil, violets, cinnamon bun

and Chinese spices. It's full-bodied but lithe and rather

effortless, as it glides through finely woven tannins and

spicy layers of fruit to the long finish. A blend of 40%

merlot, 31% cabernet sauvignon and 29% malbec. Drink in

2021.






ANTHONIJ RUPERT CABERNET SAUVIGNON COASTAL REGION 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

93

Decadent nose of plum liqueur, dark chocolate, coffee,

cedar, mahogany and dark cherries. Full body, chewy

tannins and a spicy, full-on finish. Drink in 2020.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT FRANSCHHOEK BLEND 2011



Vintage 2011

Score

93

Dark plums and cherry liqueur, coffee beans, mocha and

cigar box. Full body, round yet chewy tannins, a backdrop of

some good acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink in 2021.

B VINTNERS STELLENBOSCH B DE ALEXANDRIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Very fresh blossoms, chamomile, elderflower, pear, chalk

and apple drops. Medium-bodied with a lovely serving of

tangy acidity, wonderful depth and minerality. A taut, stony

finish. Drink now. Tiny production from old muscat vines.

BELLINGHAM COASTAL REGION FREDA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Dried blossoms, honeysuckle, dried apricots, daffodils,

vanilla, cream and cloves. Full body, lovely acid drive, layers

of stone fruit and a long finish. Drink now. A blend of chenin

blanc, grenache blanc and sauvignon blanc.

BELLINGHAM COASTAL REGION POD 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Lovely nose of black plums, dark cherries, dried herbs, rose

petals and dried violets. A tight, blue-fruited core and a

tangy finish. A blend of pinotage and shiraz. Drink or hold.

BOPLAAS WESTERN CAPE CAPE VINTAGE RESERVE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

93

A wonderful, fresh nose of dark chocolate, brambleberries,

morello cherries, sugar-coated plums, coffee, underbrush

and tons of Chinese spices. Medium-sweet and medium- to






full-bodied with some lovely grip at the back of the palate.

A long finish. Drink in 2022.

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE SWARTLAND CAROLINE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

Guava peel, dried citrus rind, apple pie and plenty of herbs

and spices. Full body, lovely stone and green fruit,

wonderful acidity and a long finish. A blend of chenin blanc,

roussanne, marsanne and viognier. Drink now.

CAPENSIS CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

93

A rich nose of papaya, mangoes, butterscotch, banoffee pie,

dried cloves and vanilla. Full body, loads of tropical fruit, a

driven serving of acidity and a long finish. Drink now.

CONSTANTIA UITSIG CHARDONNAY CONSTANTIA RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

A lovely nose of white peppers, cloves, apricots, peaches

and vanilla. A lovely balance and precision, as well as plenty

of stone fruits to back it up on the rather long finish. Drink

now.

DE MORGENZON SYRAH STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

A very fragrant and finely spiced syrah with notes of pressed

dried violets, jasmine and eucalyptus. Tight and fine-grained

on the palate with plenty of grippy tannins. A long, chewy

finish. Drink in 2020.

EAGLES’ NEST SHIRAZ CONSTANTIA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

Very fresh blueberries, granite, quartz, dark cherries,

peppers and meat. Full-bodied with a lovely core of acidity,

tight tannins and a taut finish. Drink now.






GABRIËLSKLOOF SYRAH WESTERN CAPE ON SHALE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

93

Pressed violets, jasmine, blackberry leaves, hot stones,

mulberries and dark chocolate make for a really exciting

nose. Tightly wound on the palate with a really impressive

backbone of firm tannins. The acid drives this through to a

long, minerally finish. Drink now or hold.

GROOT CONSTANTIA CONSTANTIA GOUVERNEURS RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

A very spicy and peppery Bordeaux blend, showing

peppercorn, ash, charcoal, cedar, tobacco, dark plums and

dark cherries. Pine needles, too. Full body with lots of dark

fruit, but it's all very well supported by structured tannins. A

long, chewy finish. Drink in 2022.

GROOT CONSTANTIA MUSCAT CONSTANTIA GRAND CONSTANTIA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

Dried rose petals, sugar plums, roseapples, dried crabapples

and caramelized strawberries. Medium to full body, low

acidity and a long finish. A unique wine made from red and

white muscat. Drink now.

HAMILTON RUSSELL PINOT NOIR HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Fresh red cherries, blueberries, rose petals, stems, nutmeg,

licorice and spice box. Medium to full body, refined tannins,

savory undertones and a caressing finish. Lovely tension to

this. So refined and elegant. Drink now.

KANONKOP PINOTAGE SIMONSBERG-STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

Intense but really attractive notes of ripe stems, blackberry

crumble, incense, jasmine, pressed violets, bark and ivy

extract. The palate's also a mouthful with chewy tannins, but

it's delivered across a bed of razor-sharp acidity that brings

it through to a mouthwatering finish. Really well done. Drink

in 2021.

KERSHAW CHARDONNAY CAPE SOUTH COAST VERMAAKLIKHEID GPS SERIES 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

93

A very tropical nose of mangoes, papaya, dried guava peel

and caramelized citrus peel with undertones of cloves and

spices. Full body, zippy acidity and a long finish. Drink now.

LOTHIAN VNEYARDS CHARDONNAY ELGIN VINEYARD SELECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

Cooked apples, pear pastries, white peppers, hot stones,

vanilla, dried apricots and caramelized orange peel. Full

body, an oily palate and lovely acidity that cuts through it

all. A long finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

MULLINEUX SWARTLAND STRAW WINE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Dried peach stones, apricot tart, dried mangoes,

caramelized oranges, creme brulee, banoffee pie, a touch of

citrus, orange marmalade and creme caramel. Sweet with a

dense, full, oily texture, but there’s some lovely, high acidity

right at the back of the palate. Drink now.

MULLINEUX SYRAH SWARTLAND GRANITE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

Lots of black plums, dark cherry compote, baking spices,

vanilla and resin. Full body and tons of rich dark fruit, but it's

so well supported by a stream of fresh acidity and a firm

tannin backbone. A long finish. Drink in 2020.

MURATIE STELLENBOSCH LAURENS CAMPHER 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Pomelo, green apples, pineapples, a touch of fresh grass,

honeysuckle and dried apricots. Full body, an oily palate,

layers of stone and green fruit and a textured finish. Very

serious indeed. Drink now. A blend of chenin blanc,

sauvignon blanc, verdelho and viognier.

NEWTON JOHNSON PINOT NOIR UPPER HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY FAMILY VINEYARDS 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

There's a lot going on in terms of aromas here. Ripe aromas

of plum liqueur, cassis and fruit tart, mingling with fresher

nuances of lemon and orange peel, hot stones and slate.

The palate's full-bodied with no shortage of fruit, but then it

cues in a wonderful serving of acidity, which gives this form

and lifts it through the long finish. Drink now or hold.






PELLA STELLENBOSCH FAMILY RESERVE 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

93

A peppery nose, showing lots of blackberries, creme de

cassis, dried herbs and smoke. Full body, velvety tannins, a

vibrant line of acidity and a chewy finish. Drink now or hold.

A blend of cabernet sauvignon and malbec.

POST HOUSE STELLENBOSCH PENNY BLACK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

Aromas of leaves, sweet tobacco and dark berries. Medium

body that is integrated tannins with a fine texture. A sexy

and intense finish. Very polished. A blend of shiraz, merlot,

cabernet sauvignon, petit verdot and chenin blanc. Drink

now.

RAATS CABERNET FRANC STELLENBOSCH EDEN 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

A very spicy, rather decadent nose with notes of

brambleberries, cloves, spice box, black peppers and

plummy notes. Tight and sophisticated on the palate with

chewy, structured tannins, lovely acid drive and a long finish.

Drink or hold.

RIJK’S CHENIN BLANC TULBAGH RESERVE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

93

Aromas of dried apples and pears with some pineapple and

peach undertones. Full-bodied, layered and intense with a

tropical-fruit aftertaste that is buttressed with lively acidity.

Drink now.

THE DRIFT CAPE SOUTH COAST MOVABLE FEAST 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

93

What a delicious floral nose of violets, vanilla, blueberries,

spices, eucalyptus and Chinese spices. Full body, beautifully

polished tannins and a long, mineral finish. Drink now.

THE DRIFT PINOT NOIR OVERBERG THERE ARE STILL MYSTERIES 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

93

A lovely fresh nose of red cherries, blueberries, roses and

dried herbs. Medium to full body, a wonderful serving of

acidity and a taut finish with a savory streak. Drink now.

VILAFONTE PAARL SERIES C 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

93

A rich nose of plums, eucalyptus, cassis, dark-jet licorice,

baking spices, cedar and vanilla. Full-bodied and plush, but

it has the acidity and ripe tannins that provide structure and

form. A long, fruit-forward finish. A blend of 57% cabernet

sauvignon, 19% merlot, 15% cabernet franc and 9% malbec.

Drink in 2021.

VONDELING CHARDONNAY VOOR PAARDEBERG 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

93

Deep and almost straw yellow in color in the glass. Dried

daffodils, dried apricots, dried mangoes, vanilla and spices.

Full body, tons of tropical fruit, medium acidity and a long

finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT FRANSCHHOEK OPTIMA 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

92

Blackcurrants, brambleberries, mint, eucalyptus and paprika.

Full body, structured tannins and a warm finish. Drink in

2020.

ASARA STELLENBOSCH AVALON 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

92

Candied strawberries, caramelized orange and lemon peel

and undertones of asphalt and tar. Medium to full body, lots

of fresh and driven acidity and a fruity finish. Like a Ripasso.

Drink now.

ASARA STELLENBOSCH CAPE FUSION VINEYARD COLLECTION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Lots of blue and black fruit to this on the nose. It's all very

fresh. Brambleberries, blackcurrants, dark cherries and a

touch of dried herbs. Medium to full body, steely tannins

and a savory finish. Drink in 2020.






B VINTNERS PINOT NOIR WALKER BAY TERROIR SPECIFIC BLACK BREAM 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A very floral nose of violets, rose petals, thyme, spices and

nutmeg. Medium-bodied with tight tannins, very tangy

acidity and a tightly wound finish. Drink now.

BABYLON’S PEAK SWARTLAND SMG 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Lovely blue fruits, crushed violets, charcuterie and spices

with some mint and pepper undertones. Full body, ripe but

taut tannins and a fruity finish. Great value. Drink now.

BACKSBERG COASTAL REGION FAMILY RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Ripe blackberries, moss, dark chocolate, pressed violets and

hot stones. Full body, ripe yet structured tannins and a

chewy finish. Drink in 2021. A blend of 50% cabernet

sauvignon, 30% malbec and 20% merlot.

BEAUMONT PINOTAGE BOT RIVER SIXTY BARRELS 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Blueberries, violets, orange peel and citrus. Medium to full

body, lovely tangy acidity and a taut, tight finish. Drink now.

BEAUMONT SOUTH AFRICA VITRUVIA AKA NEW BABY 2017


Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

92

What a delicious nose of dried apricots, white peppers,

mangoes, vanilla, cloves, apple pie and spices. Full body,

loads of well-integrated fruit between layers of fine acidity

and a textured finish. Drink now.

BEYERSKLOOF STELLENBOSCH FAITH 2014








Vintage 2014

Score

92

Mulberries, plum liqueur, ivy extract and vanilla and baking

spices. Full body, lots of dark and juicy fruit, succulent

tannins and a chewy finish. Drink in 2021. A blend of 34%

pinotage, 33% cabernet sauvignon and 33% merlot.

BOSCHENDAL CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

92

A white with sliced-apple and honey character on the nose

and palate. Medium body, bright acidity and a clean,

flavorful finish. Shows energy and focus. Drink now.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON CAPE SOUTH COAST BLANC DE MER 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

Apple tart, dried apricots, dust and hot stones. Medium to

full body, vibrant acidity, fleshy stone and tropical fruit. A

spicy, nutmeg finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON CHARDONNAY HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE MISSIONVALE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Lots papaya, mangoes, cream, spices, praline, candied citrus

peel, apple pastries and vanilla. Full body, a textured and

oily palate, pretty acidity and a long finish. Drink now.

CAVALLI WINE & CO CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH FILLY 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

A nice ripe chenin showing dried apricots, green mangoes

and cloves. Medium to full body, a round texture and an oily

finish. Drink now.

CONSTANTIA GLEN SAUVIGNON BLANC CONSTANTIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

Very tangy and vivid with sliced lemons, stones and metal

undertones. Medium body, bright acidity and a fresh finish.

Sancerre-like. Drink now.






DE GRENDEL PINOT NOIR CERES PLATEAU OP DIE BERG 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

92

This is all about pressed violets, blackberry compote and

licorice. The blue and black fruit on the palate is pure and

enticing, and it's buttressed by steely tannins and

mouthwatering acidity. Drink in 2019. Screw cap.

DE MORGENZON STELLENBOSCH MAESTRO BLUE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

A complex and focused red with aromas and flavors of dark

berries, spices, smoked meat. Medium-bodied, juicy and

flavorful. A blend of 44% grenache, 29% mourvedre, 21%

syrah and 6% petite syrah. Drink now.

DEETLEFS BREEDEKLOOF VOYAGE 2017


Region Breed River Valley

Vintage 2017

Score

92

Ripe apples and pear tart, chalk, dried daffodils, caramelized

orange rind and lemon-drizzle cake. Full body, a lovely line

of acidity and a fleshy finish. Drink now. A blend of viognier,

chenin blanc and semillon.

DORRANCE CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE CUVÉE ANAÏS 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

92

Kiwi fruit, guava peel, honey, honeysuckle and spices. Full

body, really zippy acidity, lots of fleshy stone and tropical

fruit. A long finish. Drink now.

GLENELLY STELLENBOSCH LADY MAY 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

92

Freshly picked blackcurrants, pressed violets, dried herbs

and licorice, as well as a hint of burnt-blackberry essence.

Full-bodied and tannic, but well-structured with a lovely

serving of acidity. A chewy finish. Drink in 2021. A blend of

89% cabernet sauvignon, 10% petit verdot and 1% cabernet

franc.






GROOT CONSTANTIA CHARDONNAY CONSTANTIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

Lots of peach stones, dried apricot peel, dust, vanilla, cream

and lots of baking spices. Full body, pretty acidity, loads of

fleshy stone fruit and a long finish. Drink in 2019 when some

of the malolactic character should integrate.

HOLDEN MANZ CHENIN BLANC WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

92

This is very dry and linear with a energetic acidity, as well as

a dried-apple and lemon character. Medium body, yet

reserved and focused. Drink now.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH BUSHVINE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

This shows more raspberry cheesecake, orange rind, lemon

citrus and an overlay of freshly picked blackberries. Medium

to full body, lovely tangy acidity, firm tannins and a mineral-

studded finish. Drink now.

KANONKOP CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

92

This shows some really nice fresh fruit in the form of just-

picked blackcurrants, cassis, mulberries and orange peel.

Medium-bodied, linear and tight. Drink now.

KEN FORRESTER PIEKENIERSKLOOF DIRTY LITTLE SECRET ONE 2015


Region Olifants River

Vintage 2015

Score

92

Tons of ripe mango jam, caramelized orange marmalade,

butterscotch and banoffee pie. Full body, lots of wax,

medium acidity and a fruit-forward finish. An extreme, late-

harvest style, but very well done. Drink now. 100% chenin

blanc.

KERSHAW CHARDONNAY ELGIN CLONAL SELECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Yellow apples, pressed daffodils, apple pie and cinnamon.

Medium-bodied with very pretty stoney undertones and

driven acidity. A mineral finish. Drink now.






KERSHAW PINOT NOIR ELGIN CLONAL SELECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A spicy and unique nose with lots of thyme, stems, paprika

and black peppers. Tight and stylish, showing a medium

body, medium-chewy tannins and a mineral finish. Drink in

2019.

KLEIN CONSTANTIA CONSTANTIA ESTATE RED 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

This is serious. Wonderfully fresh blackcurrants,

brambleberries, smoke, tobacco, cedar, dried herbs, iodine

and graphite. Full body, tight and grainy tannins, and a

chewy finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of 44% cabernet

sauvignon, 29% shiraz, 15% malbec and 12% petit verdot.

LE RICHE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Red plums, red licorice, spices and nutmeg. Full body and

lots of fruit in the red to black spectrum, but it's all held

together by structured tannins and punctuated by tangy

acidity. Drink in 2019.

LONGRIDGE CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Preserved lemons, cooked apples, vanilla and cloves.

Medium to full body, lovely tangy acidity, apple-pie flavors

and a juicy finish. Drink now. Made from organically grown

grapes.

LUDDITE SHIRAZ WALKER BAY 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

92

Mulberries, blackberry crumble, earth and spices such as

cinnamon. Very sexy and polished on the palate, offering

lots of fruit. There's also a good structure and tension with

tangy acidity and grippy tannins, which hold things in place.

Drink now.

MORGENSTER STELLENBOSCH 2012








Vintage 2012

Score

92

Brambleberries, plum liqueur, cedar, dark chocolate, baking

spices, coffee beans and cassis. Full body, velvety tannins, a

big serving of dark fruit and a chewy finish. Drink in 2021. A

blend of cabernet franc, cabernet sauvignon and merlot.

MULLINEUX CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND QUARTZ 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Aromas of sliced pineapples, peach and pears follow

through to a medium to full body with pretty subtle fruit. A

clean and vivid finish. Dry and fruity. Drink now.

MULLINEUX SWARTLAND OLD VINES 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Lots of dried mangoes, dried apricots and dried papaya, as

well as cream undertones. Full-bodied, dense and layered

with a beautiful line of acidity and a nutmeg finish. Drink

now. A blend of 62% chenin blanc, 15% grenache blanc,

11% viognier, 8% clairette blanche and 4% semillon. Drink

now.

MULLINEUX SYRAH SWARTLAND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A blue-fruited and deliciously fresh syrah that shows

blueberries, black peppers and Chinese spices. Medium-

bodied, linear and refined with polished tannins and a

succulent, violet-flavored finish. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

MURATIE SIMONSBERG-STELLENBOSCH ANSELA VAN DE CAAB 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

This shows lots of plums, dried strawberries, cigar box and

vanilla. Full body, chewy tannins, a fine line of acidity and a

long, mouth-coating finish. Drink in 2021.

NEWTON JOHNSON UPPER HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY FULL STOP ROCK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A pretty and refined wine with a berry, cherry and blueberry

character. Medium body, fine and silky tannins and a clean

finish. A blend of syrah, grenache, and mourvedre. Drink

now.






OLD ROAD WINE CO CHENIN BLANC FRANSCHHOEK SINGLE VINEYARD 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A tropical-fruited chenin showing lots of mangoes, dried

flowers, butter and pineapples. Full body, some driven

acidity and a long finish. Drink now.

OPSTAL CHENIN BLANC SLANGHOEK CARL EVERSON SINGLE VINEYARD 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Very ripe but not candied. Dried apricot peel, mango pie,

caramelized oranges and lemon-drizzle cake. Full body,

absolutely tons of tropical and stone fruit, a fine of acidity

and a full-on finish. Extreme, like a vendange tardive, but

very well-executed. Drink now.

OPSTAL SLANGHOEK CARL EVERSON CAPE BLEND 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Orange rind, lemon drizzle cake, raspberries, wild

strawberries, lavender and cloves. Medium to full body, fine

tannins and a zesty finish. Drink now or hold.

PASERENE CHARDONNAY ELGIN 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

A layered and pretty wine with cooked-apple, cream and

toffee character. Full-bodied, yet remains bright and lively.

Drink now.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF PIEKENIERSKLOOF 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Complex aromas of blueberries, walnuts and spices. Some

sandalwood, too. Full body, chewy tannins and a flavorful

finish. Very cool. A blend of 45% grenache, 45% shiraz, 5%

mourvedre and 5% tannat. Drink now.

RAATS STELLENBOSCH RED JASPER 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

92

Blackberries, plums, lavender and spices. Full body, grippy

tannins and a spicy finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of 48%

cabernet franc, 36% malbec, 9% cabernet sauvignon, 5%

merlot and 2% petit verdot.

RHEBOKSKLOOF CHARDONNAY PAARL SANDSTONE GROVE LIMITED EDITION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Lovely papaya, dried pineapple, cloves and vanilla. Full

body, layers of fleshy tropical fruit and a long finish.

Remains fresh. Drink or hold.

RUPERT & ROTHSCHILD CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE BARONESS NADINE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

92

This is very much focused on stone fruit with apple pastries,

jasmine and honeysuckle. The palate's very linear and taut

with zippy acidity. A textured finish. Drink now.

RUST EN VREDE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH SINGLE VINEYARD 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Dried red plums, strawberries, red licorice, spices,

peppermint tea and eucalyptus. The palate shows lovely

red-berry flavors, which are supported by polished and

velvety tannins. A caressing finish. Drink in 2020.

RUST EN VREDE STELLENBOSCH 1694 CLASSIFICATION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

A brambly nose of blackberries, lemon citrus, nutmeg and

baking spices. Full body, structured tannins and a delicious,

flavorful finish. Drink in 2021. A blend of 66% syrah and 34%

cabernet sauvignon.

RUST EN VREDE SYRAH STELLENBOSCH SINGLE VINEYARD 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Mulberries, blackberry compote, sugar plums and milk

chocolate. Full body, ripe and succulent tannins and a long,

chewy finish. Drink in 2020.






SPIER COASTAL REGION CREATIVE BLOCK 3 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Brambleberries, blueberry cake, ivy, bracken, licorice and

spice box. Full body, lots of firm tannins and a chewy finish.

Drink in 2020.

SUPER SINGLE VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT STELLENBOSCH THE KING & I 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

92

Quite a peppery nose with lead pencil, peppercorns,

blueberries, lavender and Chinese spices. The palate is quite

grainy, showing lots of blue fruit encased in grippy tannins.

Full body and a chewy finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of 90%

cabernet sauvignon and 10% merlot.

VAN WYK SYRAH ELGIN 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

92

Lovely blue fruit to this syrah, such as blueberries. Violets

and jasmine candle follow. Tight and refined, showing

granite and slate undertones on the medium-bodied palate,

which finishes mineral and lithe. Drink now.

VILAFONTÉ PAARL SERIOUSLY OLD DIRT 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

A decadent and rich nose overflowing with blackberry

compote, treacle, spice box, pressed violets and dark cherry

essence, but it's all fresh and in tune. The deep notes of blue

fruit are saturated across the palate but they sit nicely within

a mesh of finely woven tannins. A supple finish. Drink in

2021.

WARWICK SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE PROFESSOR BLACK 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

92

Hot stones with sliced cooked apples and white peaches.

Medium to full body, lovely fruit and a fresh finish. Screw

cap. Drink now.






WATERFORD ESTATE CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH SINGLE VINEYARD 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

92

Caramelized lemon peel, white stones, white flowers, green

apples and dried cantaloupe melon, as well as undertones

of cloves and spices. Medium to full body, really pretty

acidity, citrus flavors and a taut finish. Drink now.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT SHIRAZ WESTERN CAPE PROTEA 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

91

Fresh brambleberries, citrus and orange peel. Medium body,

driven acidity and a zippy finish. Drink now.

ASARA CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION LIGHTLY WOODED 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Elderflower, white blossoms, guava peel and spices. Medium

body, a fine line of acidity and a textured finish. Drink now.

Screw cap.

ASARA PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION ROSÉ 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

A fresh and clean rosé with sliced peaches, apples and light

strawberries following through to a medium body. Good

fruit and a fresh finish. A fun and layered rosé. Screw cap.

Drink or hold.

ASARA STELLENBOSCH THE BELL TOWER 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

91

Brambleberries, nutmeg, spice box, bracken and dried herbs.

Full body, structured tannins and a chewy finish. Should

come together. Drink in 2021.

B VINTNERS PINOT NOIR STELLENBOSCH TERROIR SPECIFIC RESERVOIR ROAD 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

This shows more dark cherries, dark plums, licorice and

spices. The palate shows some particularly grainy tannins,

pretty acidity and a flavorful finish. Drink now.






B VINTNERS PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH LIBERTÉ 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

A fresh and fruity red, showing citrus rind, lavender, freshly

cut herbs, orange rind, raspberries and slate. Medium body,

firm and grainy tannins and a minerally finish. A different

take on pinotage. Drink now.

B VINTNERS STELLENBOSCH HAARLEM TO HOPE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Mango drops, peach stones, guava peel and apricot pie.

Medium to full body, pretty acidity and a fruit-forward yet

structured finish. Drink now. A blend of 69% chenin blanc,

26% semillon, 3% muscat de frontignan and 2% muscat

d'alexandrie.

BACKSBERG CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT PAARL KLEIN BABYLONS TOREN 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Blackberries, dark cherry cake, plum liqueur and vanilla. Full

body, ripe yet structured tannins, a fine thread of acidity

and a chewy finish. Drink in 2021.

BACKSBERG CHENIN BLANC COASTAL REGION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Green apples, dried herbs, caramelized lemons and lemon

zest. Medium-bodied, linear and zippy with pretty acidity. A

minerally finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

BACKSBERG SHIRAZ PAARL PUMPHOUSE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Crushed violets, vanilla, cedar, Chinese spices and resin. Full-

bodied, spicy and savory with a tight backbone of tannins

and a chewy finish. Drink now.

BALEIA TEMPRANILLO CAPE SOUTH COAST 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

91

Serious berries and chocolate with spice undertones.

Medium body, round and chewy and a flavorful finish. Very

pretty with a clear fruit character. Drink now.

BEAUMONT BOT RIVER VITRUVIAN 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Plums, brambleberries and strawberry compote. Medium to

full body, grippy tannins and a spicy finish. Juicy. Drink in

2020.

BEAUMONT CHENIN BLANC BOT RIVER 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Aromas of cream and cooked pineapples. Light peaches,

too. Medium- to full-bodied, layered and fruity. Lots of dry

fruit at the finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

BEAUMONT SYRAH BOT RIVER DANGERFIELD 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

This shows more mulberries, roasted herbs, blackcurrants

and black licorice. Full-bodied, spicy and characterful with

juicy yet firm tannins. A succulent finish. Mineral

undertones, too. Drink now.

BEYERSKLOOF PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Brambleberries, blueberries, bracken and spice box. Full-

bodied with a grainy tannin texture, a fine line of acidity and

a subtle finish. Drink now.

BEYERSKLOOF STELLENBOSCH SYNERGY CAPE BLEND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Lots of berry and spice character with hints of dried fruits

and spices. Medium to full body and round, soft tannins.

Drink now or hold.






BONFIRE HILL SOUTH AFRICA EXTREME VINEYARDS 2016


Region South Africa

Vintage 2016

Score

91

Really pretty nose of blueberries, orange peel and citrus.

Medium body, fine tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now.

BOSCHENDAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A spicy and herbal cabernet with notes of blackcurrants,

paprika, red and black licorice, nutmeg and thyme. Medium

to full body, grippy tannins and a fruity yet savory finish.

Drink now.

BOSCHENDAL CHARDONNAY PINOT NOIR ELGIN GRANDE CUVÉE BRUT 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

91

A dense and layered sparkling wine with sliced cooked

apples and hints of green apples. Just the right amount of

pie crust. Full-bodied, fresh and lively. Drink now.

BOSCHENDAL SYRAH STELLENBOSCH GRANDE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Dark, deep notes of dark cherries, ink, iodine, baked

blackberries, tar and treacle. Full body, dense fruit, a fine

line of acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Remains fresh and

pure. Drink in 2021.

BOUCHARD FINLAYSON PINOT NOIR HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE WALKER BAY 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Aromas of dried strawberries, leather and orange peel

following through to a full body. Round and soft tannins

and a juicy. rich finish. Decadent and beautiful. Drink now or

hold.

CONSTANTIA UITSIG CHARDONNAY CONSTANTIA UNWOODED 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

91

Lovely dried white flowers, blossoms and honeysuckle with

some apple pastry. Quite a creamy texture considering no

wood is used. A flavorful finish. Drink or hold.

DAVID FINLAYSON CABERNET FRANC STELLENBOSCH CAMINO AFRICANA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Quite a heady nose of plum liqueur, kirsch, blackberries and

cassis. Full body, lots of fruit, ripe yet structured tannins and

a fruit-forward finish. Drink or hold.

DE GRENDEL COASTAL REGION RUBAIYAT 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A very plummy nose that also shows mulberries, dark

cherries and dark chocolate. Full-bodied and very tannic

with pretty acidity. A chewy finish. Drink in 2021.

DE GRENDEL SHIRAZ ELIM 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Lots of roasted herbs and ripe stems as well as classic

stewed blackberries and spices. Medium to full body, grippy

tannins, a fine streak of acidity and a juicy finish. Drink in

2020.

DE MORGENZON CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Preserved lemons, cooked apples, white flowers, vanilla and

cloves. Medium-bodied, zesty and linear with pretty acidity

and a creamy finish. Drink now.

DE MORGENZON STELLENBOSCH MAESTRO RED 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Cranberry sauce, iodine, iron, rust, citrus peel and dark

chocolate with dried herbs. Full body, structured tannins,

pretty acidity and a fresh finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of

42% cabernet sauvignon, 29% merlot, 15% malbec, 10%

petit verdot and 4% cabernet franc.






DE MORGENZON SYRAH STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A spicy, herby syrah with lots of black peppers, ripe stems

and plenty of brambleberries. Medium to full body, juicy

tannins and a succulent finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

DE TOREN STELLENBOSCH FUSION V 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Dark plums, brambleberries, plum liqueur, blueberry cake,

cassis and blackberry crumble. Full-bodied with lots of deep

fruit, but a firm tannin backbone that is holding this

together. While a fine line of acidity keeps it all in check.

Drink in 2020.

EAGLES’ NEST VIOGNIER CONSTANTIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Apples, some peaches and a touch of preserved lemons. Full

body, pretty acidity and saline finish. Drink or hold.

EDGEBASTON SOUTH AFRICA THE PEPPER POT 2016


Region South Africa

Vintage 2016

Score

91

Brambleberries, black peppers, orange rind and spice box.

Medium body, lots of clear and linear fruit, a fine line of

acidity and a pretty finish. A blend of 60% syrah, 14%

carignan, 11% tannat, 7% mourvedre, 5% cinsault and 3%

grenache. Drink now. Screw cap.

GABRIËLSKLOOF CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND ELODIE THE LANDSCAPE SERIES 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Plenty of apple-skin and lemon-rind aromas with hints of

hot stones. Full-bodied, dense and layered. A delicious

finish. Drink now.

GLENELLY STELLENBOSCH ESTATE RESERVE 2012








Vintage 2012

Score

91

Blackberry compote, pressed violets, mulberries and some

eucalyptus. Full body, lots of delicious fruit, firm tannins and

a flavorful finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of cabernet

sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot and syrah.

GRAHAM BECK ROBERTSON BRUT BLANC DE BLANCS PREMIER CUVÉE 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

91

A serious sparkling wine with lemon and green-apple

character. Full body and pie-crust and bread-dough

undertones at the finish. Drink now.

GRAHAM BECK WESTERN CAPE BRUT ZERO PREMIER CUVÉE 2012


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2012

Score

91

This is very yeasty with bread dough and a raw pie-crust

character, which dominates the sliced-apple character. Full-

bodied and layered. A dry finish. Drink now.

GROOT CONSTANTIA PINOTAGE CONSTANTIA 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

A dark-fruited pinotage, showing lots of black plums, cherry

cake and eucalyptus. Full body, tons of plummy fruit and a

chewy finish. Drink in 2020.

HASKELL SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH DOMBEYA BOULDER ROAD 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

A fragrant and attractively fresh nose of brambleberries,

spices, cinnamon, licorice and tar. The palate has all the dark

plummy fruit you would expect, but it's delivered in a

compact package that is supported by firm tannins and

pretty acidity. Drink now. Screw cap.

HASKELL SYRAH STELLENBOSCH HADES 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

There's really nice purity of fruit to this wine, which is in the

form of blueberries, violets and pine needles. The medium-

bodied palate shows freshness and clarity. Drink now.






HASKELL VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH DOMBEYA FENIX 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Blackberries, blackcurrants, hazelnuts, dark plum paste and

nutmeg. The palate shows good form and tension with a

solid backbone of tannins, framing the plummy flavors and

carrying them through to a fruity finish. Meaty undertones.

Drink now. Screw cap.

HOLDEN MANZ CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE BARREL FERMENTED AVANT-GARDE COLLECTION 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

91

A long and flavorful white with linear and intense apples,

toasted oak and a cream character. Medium to full body.

Delicious and flamboyant aftertaste. Drink now.

JOURNEY’S END CHARDONNAY COASTAL REGION HAYSTACK 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Mangoes, pineapples, peach pit and dried blossoms. Full

body, lots of tropical fruit, pretty acidity and a fruity finish.


KEN FORRESTER CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH PETIT 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A fresh and delicious nose of just-picked blackcurrants, dark

licorice, white peppers and sage. Medium body, firm tannins

and a vibrant finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

KLEIN CONSTANTIA SAUVIGNON BLANC CONSTANTIA PEDERBLOKKE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Lots of grapefruit and white-peach character on the nose.

Medium body, bright fruit and acidity. A flavorful finish.

Drink now.

LE RICHE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

91

Blackcurrants, dark plums, citrus peel and orange rind as

well as nutmeg make for a very appealing nose. Full body,

grippy and juicy tannins, a pretty line of acidity and a savory

finish. Drink now or hold.

LEEU CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH PASSANT 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Dried apricots, melon drops, vanilla, spices, cloves and

nutmeg. Medium body, pretty acidity and a zesty finish.

Drink now.

LEOPARD’S LEAP WESTERN CAPE CULINARIA COLLECTION 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

91

Blackcurrants, bracken, dark chocolate, mocha, coffee beans

and spice box with nutmeg and dried herbs. Full body,

grainy tannins and a chocolatey finish. Drink in 2021.

LONGRIDGE CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH CLOS DU CIEL 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Lots of apple pie, yogurt, cream and mango pastries with

clove and spice undertones. Medium to full body, very

pinpoint acidity, green fruit and a minerally finish. Drink

now.

LONGRIDGE STELLENBOSCH EKLIPTIKA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Strawberry compote, blueberries, jasmine, lavender and

orange rind. Medium to full body, some firm tannins and a

round finish. Drink in 2020.

LONGRIDGE SYRAH STELLENBOSCH DRIEFONTEIN 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Tons of blackberry compote, ivy extract, plum liqueur and

cinnamon, as well as some more nuanced notes of herbs

and spices. Full body, ripe tannins and a succulent finish.

Drink now.






LUBANZI CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Love the dried-peach and apple character with hints of

cream and apricots. Medium to full body, sliced fruit and a

flavorful finish. Drink now.

LUDDITE CAPE SOUTH COAST SALUEZ LE SABOTEUR 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Citrus, strawberries, raspberries and blueberry peel. Medium

to full body, loads of grippy tannins, pretty acidity and a

vibrant finish. Drink or hold.

MURATIE CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH ISABELLA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

A little reductive at first. This opens out in the end with

notes of dried apples, cinnamon tart, guava peel, papaya

and mangoes. Full body, lots of fleshy tropical fruit and a

fruity finish. Drink now.

MVEMVERAATS STELLENBOSCH DE COMPSTELLA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Freshly cut herbs, cedar, tobacco, spice box and

blackcurrants. Full body, chewy and structured tannins, fresh

acidity and a taut finish. Drink in 2020. A blend of 40%

cabernet franc, 32% cabernet sauvignon, 13% merlot, 11%

petit verdot and 4% malbec.

NEWTON JOHNSON CHARDONNAY UPPER HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY FAMILY VINEYARDS 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Peach pit, mangoes, some pineapples and a hint of

honeysuckle. Medium to full body, really tangy acidity,

white-flower undertones and a zesty finish. Drink now.

NEWTON JOHNSON PINOT NOIR WALKER BAY 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

91

This shows cooked strawberries, fruit cake, earth, baking

spices, Christmas pudding, cedar and leather. Round and

quite plush on the palate, but there's a streak of fresh

acidity that holds this together. An intriguing, full-bodied

pinot that's very much worth trying. Drink now.

OLD ROAD WINE CO SYRAH FRANSCHHOEK 12 MILE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Redcurrants, spices, resin and ripe black cherries. Full body,

round tannins and a fruity finish. Drink or hold.

OPSTAL CHENIN BLANC SLANGHOEK 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Dried apples, cantaloupe drops, dill and coriander. Medium

body, zesty acidity and a zippy finish. Drink now.

ORG DE RAC CHARDONNAY SWARTLAND 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Another lovely ripe nose of apricots, cloves, vanilla and

spices. Medium to full body, some butteriness, pretty acidity

and a medium to long finish. Drink or hold.

PASERENE TULBAGH UNION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Lots of pressed violets, as well as dried blackcurrants,

jasmine and incense. Not the most structured of wines, but

very floral and pretty throughout with zesty acidity. A

succulent finish. Drink now. A blend of syrah, carignan and

mourvedre.

PASERENE WESTERN CAPE MARATHON 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

91

Brambles, bracken, dark licorice, spices, violets and dark

chocolate all combine to make a dark-fruited but very fresh

nose. Full body, firm tannins and a fruity yet savory finish.

Drink in 2020. A blend of carmenere and petit verdot.






PELLA CHENIN BLANC COASTAL REGION KANNIEDOOD 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Apricot tart, dried-pear pastries, nutmeg, honeysuckle and

caramelized orange and lemon peel. Full body, lots of fleshy

tropical and stone fruit and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF GRENACHE PIEKENIERSKLOOF 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

A spicy, ripe grenache showing lots of dried dark cherries,

nutmeg and raspberry cheesecake. Medium to full body,

lots of juicy tannins, plenty of fresh acidity and a fruity

finish. Round and delicious. Drink or hold.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF PIEKENIERSKLOOF 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Tons of dried fruit, such as dried pineapples, dried apricots

and dried papaya, honey and cream. Full-bodied and very

oily with lots of fleshy tropical fruit, but the acid drive holds

this in check. A long, fruity finish. Extreme. A blend of 65%

chenin blanc, 20% grenache banc and 15% chardonnay.

Drink now.

POST HOUSE CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH STAMP OF CHENIN 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Lots of freshly cut wood with vanilla and oak character.

Dried apples and peaches too. Full body, fresh acidity and a

flavorful finish. Drink now.

RAATS CABERNET FRANC STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Blackcurrant puree, creme de cassis, kirsch, ripe stems and a

hint of tomato leaves. Nicely grainy on the palate, showing

lots of sweet red and darker fruit. There's also a sense of

form delivered by the tangy acidity and structured tannins.

Drink in 2020.






RAATS CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH OLD VINE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Another outstanding chenin blanc with sliced-apple and

white-peach character. Medium body, bright acidity and a

dry finish. Delicious now. Screw cap.

RAATS CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH ORIGINAL UNWOODED 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

A fresh and vivid white with sliced white peaches, apples

and cream. Medium body, fresh acidity and a dry, focused

finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

RAATS STELLENBOSCH EDEN SINGLE VINEYARD 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

White flowers, candied lemon peel, dill, coriander,

cantaloupe melon, apricots and mangoes. Medium- to full-

bodied and linear with fresh and vibrant acidity. A taut

finish. Drink now.

RAINBOW’S END BANGHOEK FAMILY RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Very dark-fruited bouquet, showing ink, dark chocolate,

mocha, coffee beans, beets and tomato leaves. Full body,

lots of chewy tannins and a long finish. Drink in 2020. A

blend of 30% merlot, 30% cabernet franc, 20% cabernet

sauvignon, 10% malbec and 10% petit verdot.

RAINBOW’S END CABERNET SAUVIGNON BANGHOEK STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Blackberries, brambleberries, plum liqueur and spice box.

Full body, round tannins and a flavorful, juicy finish. Shows

tension and form. Drink now.

RHEBOKSKLOOF CHARDONNAY COASTAL REGION VINEYARD SELECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

A ripe nose of dried apricots and mangoes with cooked

apples. Full body, medium acidity and a flavorful finish.

Drink now.






RHEBOKSKLOOF CHENIN BLANC PAARL BOSSTOK 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

A lovely clean nose of dill, fresh apricots and daffodils.

Medium to full body, fresh acidity and a medium to long

finish. Drink or hold.

RHEBOKSKLOOF SHIRAZ PAARL VINEYARD SELECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Lots of dark cherries, plums and meat. Full body, juicy

tannins and a round finish. Drink now.

RIJK’S CHENIN BLANC TULBAGH PRIVATE CELLAR 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Fresh and clean with a chalky, steely and focused dried-fruit

character. Apple and pear character, too. Medium body,

bright acidity and a flavorful finish. Drink now.

RUST EN VREDE STELLENBOSCH ESTATE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Creme de cassis, blackberry compote and dried herbs. Full

body, ripe tannins and a structured, chewy finish. Drink in

2021. A blend of 57% cabernet sauvignon, 34% syrah and

9% merlot.

RUST EN VREDE SYRAH STELLENBOSCH ESTATE VINEYARD 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Dark cherry compote, blackberry crumble and blueberry

puree with vanilla and spices. Full body, juicy tannins and a

velvety, full finish. Drink in 2019.

SCALI PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE SIRKEL 2016







Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

91

This seems more pinot than "tage" with aromas and flavors

of dried strawberries and flowers. A medium body and a

fresh finish. Tangy acidity, too. Fun energy to this. Drink

now.

SILVERTHORN ROBERTSON THE GREEN MAN 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Some cream and pie-crust character with dried fruits such as

lemons and green apples. Full-bodied, bright and fruity. A

zingy finish. Drink now.

SILVERTHORN WESTERN CAPE CUVÉE KAPPA CRUCIS JEWEL BOX 2013


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2013

Score

91

Lots of cooked-apple and pie-crust aromas following

through to a full body. Layers of fruit and a flavorful finish.

Drink now.

SIMONSIG CABERNET SAUVIGNON SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Fresh blackcurrants, peppers, spices, dried herbs and cedar.

Medium to full body, firm tannins and a delicious finish.

Screw cap. Drink or hold.

SIMONSIG CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Very clean and well-made with sliced-apple, honey and pear

character on the nose and palate. Medium-bodied, dense

and layered. Very pretty. Screw cap. Drink now.

SIMONSIG CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH CHENIN AVEC CHÊNE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

The dried peaches and pineapplse are so prevalent on the

nose and palate. Full-bodied, layered and intense. Dense

and flavorful. Drink now.






SIMONSIG PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH REDHILL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A lot of vanilla character, highlighting the dark fruit here.

Full-bodied, round and linear with a polished and driven

finish. A smart wine texturally. Should come around nicely

with a year or two of bottle age when the new wood goes

away. Drink in 2020.

SIMONSIG STELLENBOSCH FRANS MALAN CAPE BLEND 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

Red and black plums, black cherries, dried herbs and spice

box. Full body, ripe yet structured tannins and a fruity finish.

A blend of 67% pinotage, 29% cabernet sauvignon and 4%

merlot. Drink now.

STRYDOM CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH DANIÈLE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Dried pineapples, dried apricots, apple pie and dried herbs.

Full body, lots of fleshy stone fruit, pretty acidity and a

tropical finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

STRYDOM SYRAH STELLENBOSCH ROCK STAR 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

A peppery syrah, showing plenty of burnt blackberry

essence, smoke, vanilla and cedar. The palate is nicely chewy

with juicy tannins and a compote-like finish. Drink now.

THE DRIFT CAPE SOUTH COAST OVER THE MOON 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Vivid orange peel, strawberries, citrus and candy floss.

Medium body, fresh acidity and rose water-flavored finish.

Beaujolais-like and carbonic maceration 30%. Touriga

franca, tinta baroca and shiraz. Drink or hold.

VAN WYK CHENIN BLANC DARLING 2017








Vintage 2017

Score

91

Aromas of dried pineapples and peaches with some lemon

undertones. Full-bodied, layered and ripe with a spicy

undertone. A flavorful finish. Intense. Lots of subtle

character. Drink now.

VAN WYK WESTERN CAPE OLIVIA GRACE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

91

An intriguing nose of dried jasmine, cloves, spices, apple

and pear drops, caramelized citrus peel and elderflower.

Medium to full body, really zippy acidity, layers of spicy fruit

and a peppery finish. Drink now. A blend of 56% chenin

blanc, 23% riesling, 19% chardonnay and 2% viognier.

VAN WYK WESTERN CAPE REBECCA MAY 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

91

Very fresh blueberries, slate, orange rind and citrus. Light

body, fine tannins and a fruity, delicious finish. A blend of

69% cinsault, 20% grenache and 11% syrah. Drink or hold.

VONDELING SHIRAZ VOOR PAARDEBERG BALDRICK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Roasted blackberries, nutmeg, barbecue sauce, black

peppers and spice box. Full-bodied with a really finely

knitted structure of tannins and dark-berry flavors. An

umami finish with an acid zip to close. Drink now. Screw cap.

VONDELING VOOR PAARDEBERG BABIANA 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

91

Passion fruit, mango tart, dried apricots, dried jasmine and

spices. Full body, plenty of honeyed fruit, a lovely smashing

of acidity and a pretty finish. A blend of 55% chenin blanc,

20% viognier, 14% grenache blanc, 6% roussanne and 5%

chardonnay. Drink now. Screw cap.

VONDELING VOOR PAARDEBERG MONSONIA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

91

A focused and complex red with spice, berry and sweet-

tobacco character. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and

a flavorful finish. A blend of 85% shiraz, 6% mourvedre, 5%

grenache and 4% carignan. Drink now.






WARWICK SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE THE FIRST LADY 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

91

Lots of dried-apple and pineapple character on the the nose

and the palate. A fruity finish. Dry and delicious. Screw cap.

Drink now.

WATERFORD ESTATE CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH THE LIBRARY COLLECTION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

91

Aromas of sliced apples and peaches with some lemon

undertones. Medium body and a fresh finish. Plenty of

subtle fruit at the finish. Drink now.

WHALEHAVEN CHENIN BLANC VIOGNIER COASTAL REGION ABALONE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

91

Dried-apple and pear character with some stone and melon.

Full-bodied, layered and flavorful. Screw cap. Shows some

age but holding on nicely. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE PINOTAGE FRANSCHHOEK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Lots of baking spices and vanilla,as well as coconut,

blackberry compote and resin. Full body, chewy tannins, a

fine line of acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink in 2020.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT CABERNET SAUVIGNON COASTAL REGION PROTEA 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Crushed violets, orange peel, peppers and spices. Full body,

round tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT CHENIN BLANC SOUTH AFRICA PROTEA 2017







Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Yellow apples, dried blossoms and spices. Medium-bodied

with stone fruit and a tangy finish. Drink now.

ASARA MERLOT STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Blackberries, brambleberries, cassis and resin. Full body, ripe

and juicy tannins and a chewy finish. Drink now.

ASHBOURNE PINOTAGE HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

A very floral and fresh wine with sliced-cherry and

strawberry character on the nose. Medium body, light

tannins, and a crisp finish. Linear and cool. Drink now.

B VINTNERS CHARDONNAY WALKER BAY FIRE HEATH TERROIR SPECIFIC 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Cantaloupe melon, white stones, green apples and white

peppers. Light to medium body, fresh acidity and a fruity

finish. Drink now.

BABYLON’S PEAK CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND DRYLAND BUSHVINE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Lots of herbs, sea salt and white peppers. Light to medium

body, zippy acidity and a fresh finish. Drink or hold.

BACKSBERG CABERNET SAUVIGNON PAARL 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

A ripe but fresh nose of blackberries, blackcurrants and dark

cherry pastries. Full body, juicy tannins and a fruity finish.

Drink now.






BACKSBERG PINOTAGE COASTAL REGION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Raspberries, red cherries and spices. Medium body, high

acidity and a fresh finish. Drink now.

BALEIA CHARDONNAY CAPE SOUTH COAST INGE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

90

Very ripe pineapples, papaya candies, apple pie and spices.

Very tropical on the palate, but a good smashing of acidity

keeps this in check and fresh on the fruit-forward finish.

Drink now.

BALEIA SAUVIGNON BLANC CAPE SOUTH COAST 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Aromas of sliced apples, peaches and mangoes follow

through to a medium body with bright acidity. A delicious

finish. Drink now.

BEAUMONT CHENIN BLANC BOT RIVER HOPE MARGUERITE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

The dried fruits come through clearly with sliced pineapples

and pears. Full-bodied, layered and flavorful. A delicious

finish. Drink now.

BELLINGHAM SYRAH PAARL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Lots of cloves and spices to this syrah, as well as

blackberries, dried red plums and red and black licorice. Full

body, ripe and round tannins and a fruit-forward finish.

Drink in 2020.

BEYERSKLOOF STELLENBOSCH TRAILDUST 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

90

Spices and dried fruits with hints of lemon rind following

through to a medium body. A fresh finish. Bright and lively

at the end. Drink now.

BOB’S CHENIN BLANC WESTERN CAPE STEEN 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Melon, green apples, freshly cut herbs and spices. Light to

medium body, a textured mouthfeel and a minerally finish.


BONFIRE HILL SOUTH AFRICA EXTREME VINEYARDS 2017


Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Praline, dill, thyme and cooked apples with preserved

lemons. The palate shows textured fruit, plenty of yellow

apples and a spicy finish. A blend of chenin, grenache and

roussanne. Drink now.

BOPLAAS STELLENBOSCH GAMKA RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Freshly picked blackcurrants, plum tart, blackberry compote

and orange rind. Full body, ripe tannins and a flavorful

finish. Drink now.

BOSCHENDAL CHARDONNAY ELGIN APPELLATION SERIES 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Lots of tropical fruits such as mangoes and pineapples, on

the nose. Some white peppers and spices, too. Full body,

medium acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

BOSCHENDAL CHARDONNAY PINOT NOIR WESTERN CAPE BRUT


Region Western Cape

Vintage No Vintage

Score

90

A fresh and lively white with sliced-apple and lemon

character on the nose and the palate. Medium to full body,

bright acidity and a driven finish. Drink now.






BOSCHENDAL COASTAL REGION JEAN LE LONG PRESTIGE CUVÉE BLANC DE BLANCS 2008



Vintage 2008

Score

90

A very appley sparkling wine with green-apple and cooked-

apple character. Full-bodied, layered and flavorful. Drink

now

BOSCHENDAL MERLOT ELGIN APPELLATION SERIES 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Brambleberries, citrus, orange rind and baking spices with a

hint of riper plums. Medium body, fine tannins and a

succulent finish. Drink now.

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE PINOTAGE SWARTLAND BASSON 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Ripe and fairly overt with notes of cranberry pie, resin and

dried blackberries. Full body, round tannins and a fruit-

forward finish. Drink or hold.

CAPE OF GOOD HOPE SWARTLAND RIEBEEKSRIVIER SOUTHERN SLOPES 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

90

A ripe and heady nose of plum liqueur, treacle tart, fresher

brambleberries and blackberry tart. Full body, ripe tannins

and a fruit-forward finish. Just about in balance. Drink now.

CONSTANTIA GLEN CONSTANTIA THREE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

A spicy red with blackcurrants, plenty of herbs, beets, cedar

and hay. Full body, some grippy tannins and a fruity finish.

Drink now. A blend of 62% merlot, 25% cabernet franc and

13% cabernet franc.

DE MORGENZON CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2017








Vintage 2017

Score

90

A fresh and easy chardonnay with sliced apples and white

peaches. Medium body and a straight-up finish. Screw cap.

Drink now.

DE MORGENZON CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Lemon curd, preserved lemons, hay, green apples and lime.

Medium body, fresh acidity and a fruity finish. Drink now.

Screw cap.

FAT BARREL CABERNET SAUVIGNON SHIRAZ WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Red plums, red licorice, dried herbs and cedar. Medium to

full body, fine tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now. A blend

of 65% cabernet sauvignon and 35% shiraz. Screw cap.

FAT BARREL SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Pretty sliced-lime and green-papaya character on the nose

and the palate. Medium body, bright acidity and a clean,

fresh finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

GABRIËLSKLOOF BOT RIVER THE BLEND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

A red with a currant and dark-berry character. Full body,

chewy tannins and a flavorful finish. A blend of 51%

cabernet sauvignon, 18% cabernet franc, 17% malbec and

14% petit verdot. Drink or hold.

GABRIËLSKLOOF SYRAH BOT RIVER 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Brambleberries, nettles, nutmeg and spices. Full body, juicy

tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink now.






GLENELLY CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH GLASS COLLECTION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Brambleberries, dried herbs, raspberry cheesecake and

blackberry compote. Full body, flavors of berry compote,

juicy tannins and a round finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

GLENELLY CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH ESTATE RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Sliced green apples, pears and dried white raisins. Medium-

bodied, fresh and dry. Drink now.

GLENELLY STELLENBOSCH ESTATE RESERVE 2011



Vintage 2011

Score

90

Dark plums, dark cherries, baking spices, vanilla and leather.

Full body, lots of dark fruit, medium acidity and a chewy

finish. Drink in 2021. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot,

petit verdot and syrah.

GLENELLY SYRAH STELLENBOSCH GLASS COLLECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Stewed blackberries, plums and blackcurrants with some

cloves. Medium body, tangy acidity and a fruity finish. Drink

now. Screw cap.

GRAHAM BECK PINOT NOIR WESTERN CAPE BRUT ROSÉ PREMIER CUVÉE 2013


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2013

Score

90

A fruity and slightly spicy sparkling wine with hints of dried

pears. Medium to full body, a creamy texture and flavorful

finish. Drink now.

GRANGEHURST PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 350 CELEBRATION VINTAGE 2009








Vintage 2009

Score

90

Lots of blackberries and a chocolate character with hints of

berries and spices. Medium-bodied, round and chewy with a

slightly dry finish. Shows age now. Needs drinking.

GRANGEHURST STELLENBOSCH 2008



Vintage 2008

Score

90

Some leather and berry character. Cedar, too. Medium to

full body, round tannins and a flavorful finish. A blend of

73% cabernet sauvignon, 16% petit verdot and 11% merlot.

Aged well, but needs drinking. Drink now.

HARTENBERG CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Dried apricots, peach pit and papaya. Full body, lots of

tropical fruit and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

HASKELL CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

I like the aromas of sliced apples and pears with hints of

stone. Medium to full body, lemon rind and a medium


HASKELL SYRAH STELLENBOSCH AEON 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

90

A spicy style of syrah showing lots of leather, red plums,

cedar, thyme, paprika and pine needles. Full body, fresh

acidity and a dried-fruit finish that remains fresh. Drink now.

HASKELL VINEYARDS MERLOT STELLENBOSCH DOMBEYA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Brambleberries, deep blackberries, ivy extract and resin. It's

quite dense but very enjoyable with lots of juicy tannins and

tangy acidity, lifting things through to the round finish.







HOLDEN MANZ CABERNET FRANC FRANSCHHOEK RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Blackcurrant compote, blackberries, meat and five spices.

Full-bodied and full-on, but the firm tannin backbone holds

this together. However, less probably would have been

more. Drink now.

HOLDEN MANZ WESTERN CAPE ROSÉ 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Tangy and bright with pretty fruit and sliced-peach and

strawberry character. Dry and fresh. A blend of 35% syrah,

26% grenache, 21% cabernet sauvignon, 12% cabernet franc

and 6% cinsault. Screw cap. Drink now.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY COASTAL REGION BUSHVINE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Cooked apples, dried peaches, apricots and spices. Medium

body, medium acidity and a stony finish. Drink now. Screw

cap.

JOURNEY’S END CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Quite reductive at first with wet straw, white stones and

apple pie. Medium body, pretty acidity and a fruity finish.


JOURNEY’S END SYRAH STELLENBOSCH THE GRIFFIN 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

A sweeter-fruited style of syrah, offering up aromas of

strawberry and cherry compote with vanilla undertones.

Medium body, juicy tannins and a fruit-forward finish. Drink

now.

KEN FORRESTER CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH OLD VINE RESERVE 2017








Vintage 2017

Score

90

A pleasing white with lots of character, from dried apples to

peaches, following through to a medium body. A fruity and

juicy finish. Drink now.

KEN FORRESTER CHENIN BLANC WESTERN CAPE PETIT 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Aromas of tinned pears and sliced apples follow through to

a full body with dense fruit. A crisp finish. Drink now. Screw

cap.

KLEIN CONSTANTIA SAUVIGNON BLANC CONSTANTIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

A sauvignon blanc with pretty density and undertones of

attractive dried peaches and light oranges. Medium body

and a fresh finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

LA MOTTE CABERNET SAUVIGNON WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

90

Blackcurrants, eucalyptus, thyme and pine needles. Medium

to full body, grippy tannins and a medium-chewy finish.

Drink now.

LA MOTTE MERLOT CABERNET FRANC WESTERN CAPE MILLENIUM 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

90

Aromas of berries and chocolate with some floral

undertones. Medium body, silky tannins and a flavorful

finish. Drink now.

LA MOTTE SYRAH VIOGNIER WESTERN CAPE THE PIERNEEF COLLECTION 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

90

Blackcurrants, brambleberries, dark plums and cherries.

Medium to full body, juicy acidity, fine and firm tannins and

a fresh finish. Drink now.






LE RICHE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH RICHESSE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Pretty aromas of strawberries and blackcurrants with

undertones of nutmeg and dried herbs. Medium body,

pretty acidity and a medium-chewy finish. Drink or hold.

LEOPARD’S LEAP WESTERN CAPE SPECIAL EDITION 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

90

Dried plums, redcurrants, blackberry pie, licorice, dark

chocolate and leather. Full body, chewy tannins and a round

finish. Drink in 2020.

LONGRIDGE MERLOT STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

This shows some nice red plums, brambles and cassis.

Medium body, juicy tannins and a flavorful finish. Drink now.

LONGRIDGE PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Light aromas of raspberry cheesecake, rhubarb fool and

blueberry cake. Medium body, fresh acidity, firm tannins

and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

LOVECHILD PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE 2013


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2013

Score

90

Refined and complex with aromas of dark berries, spices

and smoked meat. Medium to full body, firm and silky

tannins and a fresh finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

MURATIE MERLOT STELLENBOSCH ALBERTA ANNEMARIE 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

90

Dried red plums, dark chocolate, brambles, cedar and spice

box. Medium to full body, succulent tannins, fresh acidity

and a juicy finish. Drink now.

NAPIER CABERNET SAUVIGNON WELLINGTON LION CREEK 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Baked strawberries, dried herbs, caramelized orange peel

and fresh blackcurrants. Medium body, tangy acidity and a

fresh finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

NEWTON JOHNSON SAUVIGNON BLANC CAPE SOUTH COAST 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Subtle aromas of sliced lime and green mangoes, following

through to a medium body with tangy acidity. A bright and

vivid finish. Energized. Screw cap. Drink now.

NEWTON JOHNSON SAUVIGNON BLANC SEMILLON WALKER BAY RESONANCE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

A very dry blend with slice-apple and pear character.

Medium body, stone and dried fruits and a bright finish.

Drink now.

OLD ROAD WINE CO COASTAL REGION FRENCH CORNER 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

A pretty nose of blossoms, jasmine and spices. Medium

body, lovely acidity and a butterscotch finish. A blend of

verdelho, marsanne and grenache blanc. Drink now.

OLD ROAD WINE CO COASTAL REGION FRENCH CORNER 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

A very essence-like young drinking style with strawberries,

raspberries and orange rind. Light body, very high acidity

and a zippy finish. A blend of grenache, syrah and

mourvedre. Drink or hold.






PIEKENIERSKLOOF CHENIN BLANC PIEKENIERSKLOOF BERGENDAL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Straw, honey, dust, vanilla, cloves, spices and dried

mangoes. Full body, some good acid drive, tons of tropical

fruit and an overt finish. Drink now.

POST HOUSE SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH MERRY WIDOW 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Black cherry compote, plum liqueur and dark chocolate as

well as a prominent eucalyptus nose, suggesting this has

been pushed almost too far. The palate shows lots of good,

albeit ripe fruit, as well as round tannins. A full-on, fruity

finish. Drink now. Big style but well done.

RAATS CABERNET FRANC STELLENBOSCH DOLOMITE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Strawberry puree, blueberry compote and baking spices.

Light to medium body, round tannins and a fruity finish.


RAINBOW’S END CABERNET FRANC BANGHOEK STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Quite a minty nose with blackcurrants, spices and

eucalyptus. Full-bodied with lots of spicy black fruit and a

fruity finish. Juicy and delicious.

RUPERT & ROTHSCHILD STELLENBOSCH BARON EDMOND 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

90

Red plums, dried strawberries, mocha and coffee beans. Full

body, ripe tannins and a chewy finish. Drink in 2020.

RUST EN VREDE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH ESTATE VINEYARDS 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

90

Strawberries, raspberries, dried mint and eucalyptus.

Medium body, good grip from the tannins, a fine line of

acidity and a medium-chewy finish.

SIMONSIG PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

A fresh and balanced pinotage with aromas and flavors of

cherries, berries and light orange peel. The light earthiness

makes it interesting. Medium body, fine tannins and a crisp

finish. A beautiful drinking red now. Drink now.

SIMONSIG STELLENBOSCH ROSÉ KAAPSE VONKEL BRUT 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Dried-strawberry and light cherry character. Medium body,

fine acidity and a fresh finish. Drink now.

SIMONSIG WESTERN CAPE KAAPSE VONKEL BRUT 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

90

A tangy and fresh sparkling wine with grapefruit and lemon

character. Full, zesty and fun. Drink now.

SPIER CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

90

A ripe nose of cedar, leather, blackberry crumble and plum

liqueur. Medium to full body, some good fruit and a juicy

finish. Drink now.

SPIER CHENIN BLANC COASTAL REGION 21 GABLES 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Lots of dried-apple, pear and sliced-peach character.

Medium body, lots of fruit and a flavorful finish. Screw cap.

Drink now.






STONECROSS PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

90

Bananas, raspberry drops, plum compote, tar and blueberry

pie. Medium body, some firm tannins and a fruity finish.

Classic pinotage. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

STONEDANCE CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Aromas of dried peaches and apples, lemon rind. Full-

bodied and round-textured. Yet,energetic and flavorful at

the end. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

STRYDOM CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH REX 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

90

Paprika, red peppers, leather, tobacco and dried plums.

Medium body, ripe and round tannins and a fruit-forward


TESSELAARSDAL PINOT NOIR HEMEL-EN-AARDE RIDGE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Red cherries, citrus, orange peel, lime soda, smoke and

some tar, as well as cedary elements below. Medium body,

lots of tangy acidity and a taut finish. Drink or hold.

THE FLEDGE & CO. PINOT NOIR ELGIN 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Quite a heady nose of plum liqueur, kirsch and ripe stems.

The palate is attractive with its medium to full body, tangy

acidity and round finish. Drink now.

THE FLEDGE & CO. WESTERN CAPE 2017







Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Sliced apples, white peaches and freshly cut grass. Medium-

bodied, bright and fruity. A delicious finish. Screw cap. Drink

now.

VAN DER MERWE & FINLAYSON TEMPRANILLO STELLENBOSCH ROUGH DIAMOND PROJECT 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

90

Some berry and chocolate character. Walnuts, too. Showing

tempranillo undertones. Medium to full body and round,

juicy tannins. Drink now or hold.

VANZIJL CHENIN BLANC WESTERN CAPE BUSH VINE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Dried-peach and sliced-lemon character. Some fun

bitterness, too. Medium body and a dry, fresh finish. Drink

now. Screw cap.

VILLIERA BLANC FUMÉ STELLENBOSCH BUSH VINE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Attractive sliced-apple, lemon character with hints of stones

and cedar. Medium body, bright acidity and a clean, long

finish. Drink now.

VILLIERA CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH BARREL FERMENTED 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Dried apricots, preserved lemons, peach pit and guava peel.

Full body, lots of tropical fruit, medium acidity and a fleshy

finish. Drink now.

VONDELING CABERNET SAUVIGNON VOOR PAARDEBERG 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Strawberry compote, raspberry cheesecake, dried mint and

nutmeg. Medium-bodied with grippy tannins, a fine line of

acidity and a fruity finish. Drink now.






VONDELING PINOTAGE VOOR PAARDEBERG 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

90

Lots of blackberry and dried-strawberry character. A

medium body, firm and silky tannins and a flavorful finish. A

little extracted with tannins now. Drink in 2020.

VONDELING VOOR PAARDEBERG SWEET CAROLYN 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

90

Light dried white flowers, rosewater, lemon drizzle cake and

peach stones. Light to medium body, some pretty acidity

and a fruity finish. Drink now.

WARWICK CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE THE FIRST LADY 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

90

Cooked apples, preserved lemons, grapefruit and some

dust. Medium body, some pretty acidity and a fruity finish.


WATERFORD ESTATE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

90

Dried herbs, dried red plums, red licorice and spice box.

Medium body, some good tannin grip and a fruity finish.

Drink now.

WATERFORD ESTATE STELLENBOSCH THE JEM 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

90

Brambles, dried nettles, blackberries, blueberry cake and

dried spices. Full body, lots of ripe fruit, a smashing of fresh

acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE FRANSCHHOEK L'AMOUR TOUJOURS 2014








Vintage 2014

Score

89

A riper, wooded style with cedar, tobacco, vanilla and spice

box across ripe red plums and leather. Full body, ripe red

fruit and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE SYRAH FRANSCHHOEK 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

A big, rich style showing lots of coconut and vanilla on the

nose, as well as blackberry jam. Full-bodied with lots of

baking-spice undertones from the wood. Well made, and

certainly a crowd pleaser. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE SYRAH FRANSCHHOEK SINGLE VINEYARD 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

A big, spicy syrah with lots of mulberries, blackcurrant

crumble and stewed blackberries. Full body, ripe and chewy

tannins and a full-on finish. Drink now.

ANTHONIJ RUPERT SOUTH AFRICA PROTEA ROSÉ 2017


Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

89

Strawberry essence, orange zest and petals. Light, fresh and

fruity on the finish. Drink now.

ASARA CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH THE WHITE CAB 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Limes, lemon juice, green apples and thyme. Light to

medium body, fresh acidity and a slightly short finish.

Delicious all the same. Drink now. Screw cap.

ASARA SAUVIGNON BLANC STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Light aromas of pears and apple drops, as well as some

white blossoms. Shows some good tension on the palate

with pretty acidity. Drink now. Screw cap.






BACKSBERG PAARL FAMILY RESERVE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Tinned pineapples, canned mangoes and dust. Full body

and some nice texture but a little dull on the finish. Drink

now. A blend of 50% roussanne, 25% sauvignon blanc and

25% chardonnay. Screw cap.

BELLINGHAM PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Dried redcurrants, dried raspberries, herbs and plenty of

spices. Medium body, fine acidity and a fruit-forward finish.

Drink now.

BEYERSKLOOF PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

89

A very floral nose with crushed violets, bananas and

cinnamon. Medium body, lots of sweet fruit and an easy

finish. Drink now.

BOB’S PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

89

Dried strawberries, plums, herbs and spices. Medium body,

velvety tannins and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

DE MORGENZON GRENACHE STELLENBOSCH DMZ 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

This shows a lot of whole-berry aromas with bubble-gum,

blueberry-candy and grapey character. Full body, round

tannins and a full-on finish. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

DE MORGENZON STELLENBOSCH MAESTRO 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

89

Dried apricots, some bruised apples and a touch of

cinnamon. Medium body, some nice tangy acidity and a

fruity finish. Drink now. A blend of 29% roussanne, 23%

chardonnay, 22% chenin banc, 18% grenache blanc and 8%

viognier.

DEETLEFS CHENIN BLANC BREEDEKLOOF 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Dried honeysuckle, mangoes, papaya and ripe pineapples.

Medium to full body, some tangy acidity and a fruit-forward

but slightly candied finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

DEETLEFS PINOTAGE BREEDEKLOOF 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

Aromas of blackberries, wheat and spices follow through to

a medium to full body. Firm and silky tannins and a juicy

finish. Turns a little short at the finish. Drink now.

DORRANCE CHENIN BLANC SWARTLAND KAMA OLD VINES 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Dried flowers, honeysuckle, white peaches, nespole,

chamomile and a little bit of marzipan. Medium to full body,

medium acidity and a finish that lacks just a touch of

freshness. Drink now.

DORRANCE SYRAH WESTERN CAPE CUVÉE AMEENA 2014


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2014

Score

89

This shows dried strawberry jam and leather as well as

cedar. Full and round with juicy tannins and a fruity finish.

Enjoyable but a little one-dimensional. Drink now.

DU PLEVAUX CHENIN BLANC VIOGNIER WELLINGTON ELIZABETH ALBERTHA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Attractive white with dried-apple and pear character.

Medium body and a fruity finish. Screw cap. Drink now.






DU PLEVAUX PINOTAGE WELLINGTON 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Lots of smoky and ripe fruit character to this red. A burnt-

orange undertone and blue fruits, too. Medium-bodied,

tight and fresh with brightness and focus. A little lean at the

end. Drink now.

DU PLEVAUX SHIRAZ WELLINGTON 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

This has quite a lot of tomato-leaf character with some

earth and resin, as well as a fair sharing of meaty

undertones. Full body, ripe and juicy tannins and a fruit-

forward finish. Drink now.

EAGLES’ NEST MERLOT CONSTANTIA 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

Redcurrants, blueberries, paprika and herbs. Light to

medium body, pretty acidity and slightly short finish. Drink

or hold.

EAGLES’ NEST SAUVIGNON BLANC COASTAL REGION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Lots of white peppers, grapefruit and a touch of asparagus.

Medium to full body, pretty full-on acidity and a tangy


FAT BARREL CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

89

Caramelized pineapples, a touch of tinned peaches and

some apricot peel. Full body, medium acidity and an oily


FRANSCHHOEK CELLAR STELLENBOSCH THE LAST ELEPHANT 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

89

A ripe nose with paprika, dried blackcurrants, dried herbs

and leather. Full body, round tannins and a slightly diluted

finish. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc

and petit verdot. Drink now.

GLENELLY CABERNET FRANC STELLENBOSCH GLASS COLLECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

An open, fruity nose of brambleberries, ivy and spices. Full

body, lots of black fruit and a fleshy finish. Drink now. Screw

cap.

GLENELLY MERLOT STELLENBOSCH GLASS COLLECTION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Brambles, red plums, blackcurrants and undertones of citrus

peel with some cedar. Medium body, firm tannins and a

fruity and slightly jammy finish. Drink now.

GRAHAM BECK PINOT NOIR CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE BRUT


Region Western Cape

Vintage No Vintage

Score

89

A dense and flavorful white with cooked apples, lemons and

hints of pie crust. Layered and delicious. Drink now.

GRAHAM BECK PINOT NOIR CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE BRUT ROSÉ


Region Western Cape

Vintage No Vintage

Score

89

A fresh and fruity sparking wine with a light cherry and

lemon character. Medium body, fresh acidity and a lean,

energized finish. Drink now.

GROOT CONSTANTIA SAUVIGNON BLANC CONSTANTIA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Yellow apples, some guava peel and kiwi fruit. Medium

body, some good oily texture and a fresh, fruity finish. Drink

now.






GROOT CONSTANTIA SHIRAZ CONSTANTIA 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Blackberry compote, black olives and tomato and plum

paste. The palate's got lots of rich fruit, but it manages to sit

comfortably enough within a sheen of firmer tannins. Drink

now.

HARTENBERG MERLOT STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Blueberries, stewed raspberries, peppercorn and quite a lot

of herbal liqueur. Full body, round tannins and a fruit-

forward finish. Enjoyable but a little one-dimensional. Drink

now.

HASKELL SAUVIGNON BLANC STELLENBOSCH DOMBEYA 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Pomelo, light blossoms and green apples. Light body, fresh

acidity and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

HASKELL SYRAH STELLENBOSCH PILLARS 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

89

A red-fruited syrah offering up notes of red plums, cooked

raspberries and dried herbs. Medium body, some firm

tannins and an easy finish. Drink now.

HOLDEN MANZ FRANSCHHOEK VERNISSAGE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Strawberry compote, candied cherries, dried redcurrants

and spices. Medium to full body, round tannins and an easy

finish. A little one-dimensional. Drink now.

HOLDEN MANZ FRANSCHHOEK VISIONAIRE 2014








Vintage 2014

Score

89

Lots of plummy fruit on the nose as well as dried cherries

and dried redcurrants. Full body, lots of ripe tannins and a

slightly extracted finish. Drink in 2020.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS COASTAL REGION INTEGER 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

A juicy and flavorful red with berry and blackberry character.

Medium to full body and a chewy finish. Drink now.

IDIOM STELLENBOSCH 2011



Vintage 2011

Score

89

Overtly plummy and fruit-forward with ivy extract,

blackberry jam and baking spices. Full-bodied and dense

with chewy tannins and a blockbuster finish. A little too

much, but drink if you enjoy this kind of full-on style. Try it

in 2021. A blend of 67% cabernet sauvignon, 19% merlot,

9% petit verdot and 5% cabernet franc.

IDIOM STELLENBOSCH CAPE BLEND 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

Resin, tar, treacle, plum liqueur and spices. Full-bodied, rich

and chewy at the finish. Drink in 2021. A little old-school but

enjoyable nonetheless. A blend of 42% pinotage, 28%

cabernet sauvignon, 25% merlot and 5% shiraz.

JOURNEY’S END SAUVIGNON BLANC COASTAL REGION THE WEATHER STATION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

White peppers and some asparagus character. Medium

body, zippy acidity and a tropical-fruit finish. Drink now.

Screw cap.

JOURNEY’S END SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

89

Another spicy syrah from Stellenbosch showing paprika,

brambleberries, spice box, tobacco and licorice undertones.

Full body, slightly dry tannins and a fruit-forward finish.

Drink now.






LA MOTTE SYRAH WESTERN CAPE 2014


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2014

Score

89

A pleasant syrah showing notes of strawberries, earth,

cloves and spice box. Medium body, fine tannins and a

fruity finish. Drink now.

LEOPARD’S LEAP MERLOT WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

89

Lots of toast, nutmeg and coffee beans as well as some

raspberry compote and cinnamon stick. Medium body,

round tannins and a fruit-forward finish. Screw cap.

LEOPARD’S LEAP PINOTAGE SHIRAZ WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

89

Aromas of strawberries and dried flowers follow through to

a medium body. Firm and silky tannins and a bright finish.

Screw cap. Drink or hold.

LONGRIDGE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

This shows lots of ripe red fruit, such as dried raspberries,

red licorice, tar and spice box. The palate shows some good

form with some grip to the tannins and fine acidity holding

things together. Drink now.

LONGRIDGE SAUVIGNON BLANC STELLENBOSCH DRIEFONTEIN 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

A lot of caramelized apples to this sauvignon, as well as

dried apricots. This character persists, and it's a little bitter

on the finish in spite of the good serving of fruit. Drink now.

LOTHIAN VNEYARDS PINOT NOIR ELGIN VINEYARD SELECTION 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

89

An overt pinot with lots of strawberry compote, orange

marmalade and just a touch of dried fruit. Full-bodied and

rather full-on, but delicious all the same. Drink now.

MORGENSTER STELLENBOSCH LOURENS RIVER VALLEY 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

89

Dried herbs, dark licorice, dark plums, a hint of figs, caramel,

dark chocolate and baking spices. Full body, ripe and big

tannins, medium acidity and a fruit-forward finish. A blend

of cabernet franc, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. Drink in

2021.

MURATIE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH MARTIN MELCK FAMILY RESERVE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

Dried red plums, leather, tobacco and spices. This may not

entirely deliver on freshness, but it still shows a very nice

form and structure with grippy tannins. A juicy finish. Drink

now.

MURATIE SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH RONNIE MELCK 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Roasted herbs, dried strawberries, tobacco and cedar. Full

body, grippy and slightly dry tannins and a fruit-forward

finish. Drink now.

MURATIE SYRAH SIMONSBERG-STELLENBOSCH RONNIE MELCK A TRIBUTE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Black olives, plum paste, charcuterie and pine cones with

some prunes. Full-bodied, rich and a little dense in the end.

A sweet-fruited finish. Drink now.

OPSTAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON CINSAULT SLANGHOEK 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Fresh blackcurrants, spices and freshly cut grass. Light body,

fresh acidity and a slightly short finish. A fun wine

nonetheless. Drink now.






PELLA SANGIOVESE STELLENBOSCH DIE HANG 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Cherry and orange-peel aromas follow through to a

medium body. Fresh acidity and a clean finish. Drink now.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF GRENACHE PIEKENIERSKLOOF ROSÉ 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Some watermelon and peach character. Medium to full

body, good fruit and a fresh finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

RAINBOW’S END MERLOT BANGHOEK STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Resin, tar, dark plums, eucalyptus and a hint of dried fruit,

such as figs, and some nutmeg. Full-bodied with round yet

grippy tannins that give it some form, even though this is a

little jammy. Drink now.

RHEBOKSKLOOF PAARL VINEYARD SELECTION 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Lots of baked plums, spices, leather and some earth. Full

body, ripe tannins and a medium finish. Drink now. A blend

of mourvedre, shiraz and grenache. Drink or hold.

RIJK’S PINOTAGE SYRAH TULBAGH 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

89

Blackberry compote, vanilla, dust, spice box and baking

spices. Full body, chewy tannins and a spicy, dried-fruit

finish. A little too much in the end. Drink now.

RIJK’S SHIRAZ TULBAGH PRIVATE CELLAR 2011








Vintage 2011

Score

89

Cedar, tobacco, cinnamon, dried plums, caramel and dark

chocolate. Full body, a fine line of acidity, ripe tannins and a

fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

RUPERT & ROTHSCHILD CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT WESTERN CAPE CLASSIQUE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

89

Redcurrants, peppercorn and a hint of some bell peppers.

Medium to full body, slightly dry tannins, fresh acidity and a

savory finish. Drink now.

SCALI VOOR PAARDEBERG BLANC 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

A very ripe nose that's a little too much with dried mangoes,

caramelized orange peel, caramel and creme brulee. Full

body, lots of honeyed fruit and a fruit-forward, caramelized

finish. Drink now.

SIMONSIG STELLENBOSCH TIARA 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

89

Dried plums, dried cherries, leather, spices, coffee beans and

tobacco. Full body, lots of dried fruit, slightly dry tannins

and a chewy finish. Drink now. A blend of 68% cabernet

sauvignon, 22% merlot, 4% malbec, 4% petit verdot and 2%

cabernet franc.

SIMONSIG SYRAH STELLENBOSCH MERINDOL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Very ripe, heading into fig and prune territory with leather,

dark plums, spice box and meat undertones. Full body, ripe

and chewy tannins and a dark-chocolate finish. Just about

pulls in at the finish. Drink or hold.

SPIER PAARL CREATIVE BLOCK 8 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

A bold nose showing lots of plum liqueur, ink, dark

chocolate and a hint of caramel. Full body, a ton of black

fruit and a slightly alcoholic finish. Drink now.






STELLENRUST CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Sliced pears and bananas with apple character on the nose.

Medium to full body, good fruit and a fresh finish. Screw

cap. Drink now.

STELLENRUST PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

Lots of dried fruit with burn-orange and dark-berry

character. Medium body, firm and silky tannins and a clean


STONEDANCE SHIRAZ SWARTLAND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

Cooked strawberries, beets, herbs and spices. Medium body

and juicy tannins, but a touch of jam on the finish. Screw

cap. Drink or hold.

THE FLEDGE & CO. PINOT NOIR WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

89

This shows more cedar, tobacco, spices, licorice and dried

flowers. Full-bodied with rather resolved tannins, a fine

thread of acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

THE GOOSE CABERNET SAUVIGNON UPPER LANGKLOOF 2016


Region Klein Karoo

Vintage 2016

Score

89

Dried stems, strawberry compote, nutmeg and spices. Good,

fresh berries on the palate. Light to medium in body,

showing firmness and focus even though it's a little short on

the finish. Drink now.

THE GOOSE CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE 2016







Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

89

Dried apricots, mangoes and a touch of marzipan. Full-

bodied, round and fruity with a dried-apple finish. Drink

now. Screw cap.

VANZIJL CHARDONNAY VIOGNIER WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

89

Sliced cooked apples and peaches with some dried

pineapples. Full-bodied, fruity and straightforward. Screw

cap. Drink now.

VILLIERA MERLOT STELLENBOSCH MONRO 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

89

This shows lots of herbs and spices with a hint of tomato

leaves. On the palate, it's quite firm and attractive,

supporting some juicy tannins and the medium-chewy


VONDELING VOOR PAARDEBERG PHILOSOPHIE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

89

Dark cherries, dark chocolate, cigar box, toasted oak and

walnut shavings. Full body, ripe tannins and a slightly

wooded finish. Drink in 2019.

WARWICK CABERNET SAUVIGNON WESTERN CAPE THE FIRST LADY 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

89

A red-fruited and spicy cabernet with no shortage of

paprika, thyme, sage and red plums. Medium body, firm

tannins and a slightly short finish. Enjoyable nonetheless.

Drink or hold.

WATERFORD ESTATE GRENACHE STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

89

This is very herb-driven on the nose, showing quite a lot of

reduction at first. It soon opens up to raspberries and

Chinese spices. Medium body, fresh acidity and a fruity







WATERFORD ESTATE SAUVIGNON BLANC ELGIN 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

89

Guava peel, apple rind and some dried apricots. Medium

body, quite a fair bit of stone fruit and an oily finish. Drink

now. Screw cap.

WHALEHAVEN PINOT NOIR UPPER HEMEL-EN-AARDE VALLEY CONSERVATION COAST 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

89

This has the leather, cedar and tobacco undertones for a

wine that's already showing its age, but it's married to

fresher elements of lemons and orange peel. Full-bodied

and still with lots of fruit, even though the tannins are a little

dry at the finish. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE CABERNET SAUVIGNON COASTAL REGION BLUE OWL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

Raspberries and strawberry jam and red licorice. Light to

medium body, round tannins and a sweet-fruited, easy


ALLÉE BLEUE CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT FRANSCHHOEK 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

Dried plums, cedar, tobacco and earth. Full body, ripe

tannins and a slightly dried finish. Drink now. a blend of

56% cabernet sauvignon, 42% merlot and 29% petit verdot.

ALLÉE BLEUE CHENIN BLANC FRANSCHHOEK 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

Aromas and flavors of dried apples and pears. Medium

body, good fruit and a fresh finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

ALLÉE BLEUE MERLOT COASTAL REGION BLUE OWL 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

88

Pale-ish garnet color. Ripe strawberries, orange peel and

some tomato paste. Medium body, medium acidity and a

slightly short finish. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

ASARA CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

This shows quite a lot of jammy fruit with stewed

raspberries and strawberries. Medium body, round tannins

and an easy finish. Drink now.

ASARA CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH VINEYARD COLLECTION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

A little bit funky with marzipan and dust as well as dried

apricots. Some decent fruit on the palate, but a little

disjointed. Drink now. Screw cap.

BELLINGHAM CHENIN BLANC COASTAL REGION OLD VINE THE BERNARD SERIES 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

Aromas of fruit cocktail with hints tin pears. Full-bodied,

dense and a bit heavy. Not as fresh as the 2015. Screw cap.

Drink now.

BEYERSKLOOF PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH DIESEL 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

A rich nose of plum pie, creme caramel and blueberry cake

with a hint of orange peel. Full body, ripe and structured

tannins and a slightly hot finish. Drink in 2020.

BOSCHENDAL STELLENBOSCH BLACK ANGUS 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

This is very overt and inky on the nose with notes of

eucalyptus, baking spices and resin. Full-bodied, essence-

like and almost oily. A little too much in the end and a bit

jammy. Drink now.






CONSTANTIA GLEN CONSTANTIA TWO 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

Aromas of sliced apples and pears with some slate following

through to a full body with lots of fruit. A dry finish, and a

little metallic at the end. A blend of 68% sauvignon blanc

and 32% semillon. Drink or hold.

DAVID FINLAYSON CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH CAMINO AFRICANA 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

Bruised apples, bruised pears, dried apricots and peach tart.

Full body and medium acidity. Slightly dull on the finish.

Drink now.

DAVID FINLAYSON PINOT NOIR STELLENBOSCH CAMINO AFRICANA RESERVE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

This is showing a lot of development now on the nose, and

they're in the form of leather, tobacco and dried figs and

tar. The palate is better, offering good freshness even

though the tannins are drying out a little bit. Needs

drinking.

DE MORGENZON SAUVIGNON BLANC STELLENBOSCH 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

Aromas of sliced lemon and grapefruit follow through to a

medium body with bright acidity. A bitter-lemon finish.

Screw cap. Drink now.

DE MORGENZON STELLENBOSCH GARDEN VINEYARDS ROSÉ 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

Some dried strawberry and earth character. Medium body

and a fresh finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

DEETLEFS CHENIN BLANC BREEDEKLOOF 2017








Vintage 2017

Score

88

A solid chenin with a sliced-apple and peach character.

Medium body and a fruity finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

DEETLEFS MERLOT BREEDEKLOOF 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

Strawberry jam, leather and dried-out flowers. Full body, lots

of rich and dried red fruit, slightly dry tannins and a fruit-

forward finish. Drink now.

EDGEBASTON CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

Burnt blackberry essence, plum liqueur, creme de cassis and

ivy extract. Full-bodied and rather fat with lots of stuffing

and a rather alcoholic finish. Drink now.

GRANGEHURST CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH RESERVE 2008



Vintage 2008

Score

88

This is still holding on with notes of paprika, dried stems

and cassis as well as leather, cedar and tobacco. Lots of

tertiary character on the palate, which is round with resolved

tannins. A fruit-forward finish. Drink up.

GRANGEHURST PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 2008



Vintage 2008

Score

88

Some berry and dried-orange character. Medium body and

a tar, earth finish. Drink now.

GRANGEHURST STELLENBOSCH NIKELA 2007



Vintage 2007

Score

88

Some cooked fruit with a berry and cherry character.

Chocolate, too. Full body and round tannins. A blend of 35%

cabernet sauvignon, 34% pinotage, 23% shiraz and 8%

merlot. Needs drinking. Drink now.






HASKELL SYRAH CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

88

A very ripe nose with lots of dried plums, treacle, dark

chocolate and tar. Full-bodied with slightly dry tannins and

an extracted finish. Old school. Drink now if this is your

thing.

HOLDEN MANZ MERLOT FRANSCHHOEK RESERVE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

This is very ripe with prunes and dark chocolate. Full, big

and chewy. A little too much at the end. Drink now.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH BUSHVINE 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

Fruit cake, dried flowers, leather, cedar and tobacco. Full

body, lots of dried fruit, round tannins and a fruit-forward

finish. Drink now.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY COASTAL REGION INTEGER 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

A simple white with sliced-apple and cream character.

Medium body and a simple finish. Drink now.

JOURNEY’S END STELLENBOSCH THE PASTOR'S BLEND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

A fresh and fruity blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and

cabernet franc. Medium body, medium tannins and a fruity


LEEU WESTERN CAPE PASSANT 2016







Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

88

A straight-up and no-nonsense red with a currant and berry

character. Hints of hazelnuts, too. Medium body and an

easy finish. A blend of 36% cabernet sauvignon, 33%

cabernet franc and 31% cinsault. Drink now.

LEOPARD’S LEAP CHENIN BLANC WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

88

Some canned-fruit and peach character. Medium to full

body and simple fruit. Drink now. Screw cap.

LONGRIDGE CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

88

This has dried-apple and pear character but a hint of white

raisins, too. Full body and a dried-fruit finish. Drink now.

Made from organically grown grapes.

LONGRIDGE CINSAULT STELLENBOSCH DIE PLÊK 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

Light candied strawberries, caramelized citrus peel, herbs

and spices. Light body, round tannins and an easy finish.

Drink now.

LONGRIDGE PINOT NOIR ELGIN CUVÉE RIKA 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

The nose is quite ripe with strawberry jam, fruit cake and

spices. Full-bodied, rounded and a little hot at the finish.

Drink now.

LUBANZI COASTAL REGION 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

88

A straightforward red with berries and cherries. Medium-

bodied and chewy. Straight-up. A blend of 58% shiraz, 36%

cinsault, 3% mourvedre and 3% grenache. Drink or hold.






MOON RABBIT PINOTAGE SOUTH AFRICA 2017


Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

88

Cranberry sauce, blueberry puree and eucalyptus. Medium

body with some sweetness and medium acidity. Fruity and

straightforward. Drink or hold.

MORGENSTER NEBBIOLO STELLENBOSCH ITALIAN COLLECTION NABUCCO 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

88

Shows aromas of dried cherries, cedar, dried flowers, and

berries, which follow through to a medium body with a

stemy and earthy undertone to the dark fruit. A little bitter.

Drink now.

MORGENSTER STELLENBOSCH ITALIAN COLLECTION TOSCA 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

88

This shows lots of toast, dried plums and treacle. Full body,

ripe tannins and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now.

MOUNT SUTHERLAND PINOT NOIR SUTHERLAND-KAROO 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

Strawberry compote, blueberry puree and brambleberries.

Full body, lots of jammy fruit, a fine line of acidity and a

fruit-forward finish. Not the most subtle of wines, but

enjoyable nonetheless. Drink or hold.

MURATIE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH MARTIN MELCK 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

This shows lots of cedar, tobacco and dried flowers and

fruit. Plenty of ripe fruit, even though it is drying out a little

with the wood tannins. Drink now.

NAPIER WELLINGTON SAINT CATHERINE SINGLE VINEYARD 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

88

Bruised apples, dust, marzipan and peach pit. Full body,

medium acidity and a fruit-forward finish. Drink now. Screw

cap.

OPSTAL CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT BREEDEKLOOF SIXPENCE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

A soft and round textured red with currant, light-chocolate

and hazelnut character. Medium body and a simple finish.


OPSTAL SAUVIGNON BLANC SEMILLON SOUTH AFRICA SIXPENCE 2017


Region South Africa

Vintage 2017

Score

88

A clean and straightforward white with cooked-apple and

lemon character. Medium body. Drink now. Screw cap.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF GRENACHE BLANC PIEKENIERSKLOOF 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

This is a little tired now with some cooked-apple and

marzipan character. Medium body. Drink now.

RIJK’S PINOTAGE TULBAGH RESERVE 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

Aromas of blackberries, blueberries and wet earth. Some

tobacco, too. Medium body, tangy fruit and a flavorful

finish. Drink now.

SPIER PINOTAGE STELLENBOSCH 21 GABLES 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

88

This shows resin, vanilla and mocha-scented oak, as well as

blackberry crumble and baking spices. Full body, lots of

drying tannins and a slightly extracted finish. Drink in 2021.






STELLENRUST SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH PEPPERGRINDER'S 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

88

Lots of candied strawberries, tobacco, cedar and cinnamon.

The palate shows some fine-grained tannins, but the slightly

tired fruit character persists. Drink now.

STELLENRUST STELLENBOSCH BARREL SELECTION TIMELESS 2013



Vintage 2013

Score

88

Strawberry compote, dried plums, dried cherries and cedar.

Full body, slightly dry tannins and a chewy finish. Needs

drinking. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot and

cabernet franc.

THE GOOSE UPPER LANGKLOOF EXPRESSION 2009


Region Klein Karoo

Vintage 2009

Score

88

Some dried fruit and spices and leather. Full body, chewy

tannins and a simple finish. A blend of 60% cabernet

sauvignon and 40% shiraz. Drink now.

VANZIJL CABERNET SAUVIGNON WESTERN CAPE BLUE INK RESERVE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

88

Dried leather, tobacco, cigar box, fruit cake and spices. Full

body, rather dry tannins and a dense, sweet-fruited finish.

Drink or hold.

VANZIJL PINOTAGE WESTERN CAPE SPECIAL RELEASE COFFEE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

88

Coffee beans, mocha, toast and mulberry candy with dried-

flower undertones. Medium body, a sweet fruit impression

and an easy finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

VANZIJL SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE 2017







Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

88

Aromas of sliced lemons and green apples follow through

to a medium body with good fruit. A simple finish. Screw

cap. Drink now.

VANZIJL SHIRAZ MOURVÈDRE WESTERN CAPE 2015


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2015

Score

88

Mocha, coffee beans, earth and spices. Medium body, firm

tannins and a slight bitter-chocolate finish. Drink now. Screw

cap.

VILLIERA STELLENBOSCH MONRO BRUT 2011



Vintage 2011

Score

88

Lots of yeast and pie-crust character with cooked apples

and lightly tinned pineapples. Full body and a flavorful

finish. Drink now.

BACKSBERG SAUVIGNON BLANC PAARL JOHN MARTIN RESERVE 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

Sliced green apples and lemons. Medium-bodied, crisp and

clean. Screw cap. Drink or hold.

BELLINGHAM CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

87

Bruised apples and tinned pineapples. Full body, medium

acidity and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

BOPLAAS TOURIGA NACIONAL CALITZDORP 2015


Region Klein Karoo

Vintage 2015

Score

87

Some stewed and earthy berry character. Medium-bodied,

funky and earthy. Screw cap. Drink now.






COLMANT CHARDONNAY WESTERN CAPE CAP CLASSIQUE BRUT


Region Western Cape

Vintage No Vintage

Score

87

A dense and simple sparkling wine with sliced-apple and

some yeast character. Full body. A bit heavy. Drink now.

DAVID FINLAYSON CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH GS 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

87

This shows ivy extract, tons of resin and vanilla and hints of

raisins. Full-bodied and very dense with a dried-fruit

aftertaste. A little too much. Drink or hold.

DE GRENDEL CHARDONNAY CERES PLATEAU OP DIE BERG 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

87

Some good fruit and sliced-apple character but turns a little

dull at the finish. Medium body and a fruity finish. Screw

cap. Drink now.

DU PLEVAUX SAUVIGNON BLANC WELLINGTON MADELEINE MENANTEAU 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

A fresh and clean white with sliced white-peach and apple

character. Medium-bodied, crisp and easy. Screw cap. Drink

or hold.

EDGEBASTON CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

87

Shows some good cooked apples but also a touch of

cellophane. Full body, medium acidity and a canned finish.


HASKELL CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH ANVIL 2016








Vintage 2016

Score

87

Some good dried-apple and pear character. Medium body.

Drink now.

LA MOTTE SAUVIGNON BLANC CAPE SOUTH COAST THE PIERNEEF COLLECTION 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

Some rose petals and white blossoms, but then the dreaded

tinned-asparagus character follows. Medium body, an oily

texture and a fruity finish. Drink now. Screw cap.

LEOPARD’S LEAP CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT WESTERN CAPE 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

87

A little jammy and simple with the berry and cherry

character. Full body and a simple finish. Screw cap. Drink or

hold.

MOUNT SUTHERLAND TEMPRANILLO SUTHERLAND-KAROO 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

87

The stewed fruit is a little annoying in this, but shows a

berry and cherry character. Medium body. Drink now.

PELLA PETIT VERDOT STELLENBOSCH KOUEVELD 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

87

This is pretty herbaceous as can often happen when this

variety is bottled alone. Roasted bell peppers and paprika

with deep cassis are what dominate proceedings. The palate

is quite dense and tannic, even though the acidity does

almost lift this through on the finish. Drink now.

PIEKENIERSKLOOF CINSAULT PIEKENIERSKLOOF 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

87

Lots of candied strawberries and just a hint of tinned fruit.

Medium-bodied with round tannins and a slightly jammy

finish. Drink now.






ROBERT CHRISTOPHER WESTERN CAPE STEEN 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

87

A sliced-apple and lemon character, medium body and a

crisp finish. Drink now.

SCALI PINOTAGE VOOR PAARDEBERG 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

87

Aromas of blueberries and blackberries with some dark-tea

undertones. Medium body, crisp acidity and an easy finish.

A little lean at the end. Drink now.

SCALI SHIRAZ VIOGNIER VOOR PAARDEBERG SIRKEL 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

Blueberry compote, blackberry puree and candied

watermelon. Medium body, low acidity and a fruity finish. A

little too much caramelized character. Drink now.

SCALI SYRAH VOOR PAARDEBERG 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

87

This is overt with quite a lot of blackberry jam, heading into

raisin territory. A full-bodied one that delivers a sweet

impression on the palate. Drink if this is your thing.

SIMONSIG SAUVIGNON BLANC STELLENBOSCH SUNBIRD 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

Canned asparagus with lemon-rind undertones. Medium

body and a fresh, bright finish. Screw cap. Drink now.

SPIER SAUVIGNON BLANC COASTAL REGION 21 GABLES 2017








Vintage 2017

Score

87

Tinned pineapples and papaya. Good density, but hard to

get over the first impression and flavors that dominate.


SPIER SAUVIGNON BLANC SEMILLON COASTAL REGION CREATIVE BLOCK 2 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

87

Dried-apple and grass character with some grilled

asparagus. Medium body and a bright finish. Screw cap.

Drink now.

STELLENRUST CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH BARREL FERMENTED 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

87

Slightly oxidized with notes of pear tart, caramel and tinned

pineapples. Full-bodied with marzipan on the finish. Drink

now.

THE FLEDGE & CO. WESTERN CAPE VAGABOND PRUDENTIA SINO VINO 2016


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2016

Score

87

A little dull on the nose with marzipan, apple pie and spices.

Medium body, medium acidity and a fruity finish. Drink now.

THE GOOSE SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

87

Green apples, sliced lemons, and light grapefruit follow

through to a medium to light body. A slightly bitter finish.


BALEIA PINOT NOIR CAPE SOUTH COAST ERHARD 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

86

Cedar, five spices, teak wood and mahogany. A little thin on

the palate now with some resolved tannins and acidity.

Drink up.






BEAUMONT MOURVÈDRE WALKER BAY 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

86

A ripe nose with lots of plum liqueur, dried lavender,

eucalyptus and a hint of roasted figs. The stewed fruit

character also comes across on the palate, which lacks some

form. Finishes a little jammy.

HASKELL STELLENBOSCH 2012



Vintage 2012

Score

86

Plum liqueur, dark chocolate, some figs and caramel. Full-

bodied, cloying and dry at the finish. Old-school.

HOOPENBURG VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY STELLENBOSCH INTEGER BRUT



Vintage No Vintage

Score

86

This is heavy and ponderous with cooked-lemon and apple-

puree character. Drink now.

STONEDANCE CABERNET SAUVIGNON SWARTLAND 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

86

Tar, red licorice, baked bananas, baked herbs and lots of

cloves and earth. Full-bodied with lots of stewed fruit. A

little funky. Screw cap.

DE TOREN STELLENBOSCH Z 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

85

Sultanas, raisins and fig jam. The palate is cloying, delivering

a high-octane, sweet impression. There's some potential

here, but it's all a bit of a shame.

GROOT CONSTANTIA CONSTANTIA GOUVERNEURS RESERVE 2015








Vintage 2015

Score

85

Tinned asparagus, unripe broccoli and celery. Herbaceous

on the palate too, despite some decent depth and focus.

SCALI VOOR PAARDEBERG ANCESTOR 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

85

This is a little funky with a canned-pear and cooked-apple

character. Dense and ponderous.

DE GRENDEL SAUVIGNON BLANC WESTERN CAPE KOETSHUIS 2017


Region Western Cape

Vintage 2017

Score

84

Light aromas of celery and lemongrass follow through to a

palate with flavors of asparagus. Light body and a light

finish. Screw cap.

GRANGEHURST CABERNET SAUVIGNON MERLOT STELLENBOSCH 2007



Vintage 2007

Score

84

Quite herbaceous with a hefty portion of bell peppers.

Leather and tobacco are what's left. Full-bodied but drying

out. Really needs drinking.

JOUBERT-TRADAUW SYRAH TRADAUW UNFILTERED 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

84

Quite a lot of earth and meat to this syrah, as well as plums

and cloves. A little funky but some good fruit.

LUDDITE CAPE SOUTH COAST SALUEZ LE SABOTEUR 2017



Vintage 2017

Score

84

A little dull with sliced-pear and cooked-apple character.

Full body and a short finish. Drink now.






POST HOUSE STELLENBOSCH MISSING VIRGIN 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

84

Baked bananas, ink, dark licorice and a hint of rubber. Full-

bodied and oily. Not for us.

KEVIN ARNOLD SHIRAZ STELLENBOSCH 2014



Vintage 2014

Score

83

This is a little funky on the nose with notes of earth and

tomato paste. Full-bodied and rather fat. Drying tannins.

SIMONSIG CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH THE GARLAND 2010



Vintage 2010

Score

83

This is tired now with earth funk, charcoal and rubber. The

palate's quite mushroomy, and the dried-fruit finish is a little

hot.

POST HOUSE CABERNET SAUVIGNON STELLENBOSCH BULLS EYE 2016



Vintage 2016

Score

82

Eucalyptus, tar, rubber and plum jam dominate the nose.

Full-bodied, quite hot and alcoholic. Bitter on the finish.

LONGRIDGE CHENIN BLANC STELLENBOSCH OU STEEN 2015



Vintage 2015

Score

81

This has just gone over the limit with tinned peaches and

tinned pineapple, as well a touch of honey and straw. Full-

bodied, cloying and off-dry. Sorry. Drink now.

RIJK’S PINOTAGE TULBAGH PRIVATE CELLAR 2013








Vintage 2013

Score

80

This is very earthy and funky with sausage undertones.

Medium body. Hard to like. Drink now.



south africa's cool-climate whites and ......levels and fermenting their whites bone-dry, very...

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