Greg Sherwood MW (97-99)

This lovely signature Niepoort 2019 vintage Port apparently has higher tannins than the famed 2017, but at this youthful stage, it is hard to comprehend this with its rich, accessible, voluptuous layers of silky, juicy soft black fruits. Benchmark certainly, a notable success – absolutely. The aromatics are so much more important than the palate flavours at this early blending phase (according to Dirk) and this enticing 2019 shows attractive notes of sweet sun ripened black berry fruits, hints of creamy molasses, savoury black stewed winter orchard fruits and a dusty, stony, smoked cigars complexity. Beautifully silky, supple and textured, there is also a fine, stony, grippy mineral tannin mouthfeel that lends a wonderful frame for the juicy blue and black berry fruit finery to be displayed. Fabulously drinkable, deliciously fresh and vibrant, but eminently bold and characterful, this is certainly another very accomplished wine from the House of Niepoort. (Residual Sugar: 88 g/l RS)

The superb Peter Lauer Saarfeils Riesling GG Faß 13 2019 is an expression of the captivating terroir of Germany's Saar region. From the acclaimed Peter Lauer estate, it encompasses over a century of winemaking tradition. This esteemed producer, lauded for its Riesling prowess, carefully cultivates this vintage on steep, slate-soiled hill sides, resulting in a wine with sheer elegance and depth.

Exuding vibrant acidity, Peter Lauer Saarfeils Riesling GG Faß 13 2019 teems with notes of tangy citrus peel, enticing stone fruit and tantalising hints of exotic spice, balanced by a subtle mineral undertone. The wine is known for its complexity and stellar ageing potential, making it ideal for seasoned wine collectors, or those seeking an exclusive wine gift.

Rest assured, Peter Lauer Saarfeils Riesling GG Faß 13 2019 is a truly remarkable representation of its vintage and terroir, a testament to the mastery of one of Germany's finest winemaking traditions.

Tim Atkin MW (99)

This remarkable site has established itself as one of the world's great Syrah vineyards in less than a decade. Sourced from four blocks totally 4.5 hectares, Callie Louw's stunning red is just short of perfection this year, but is still brilliant, confirming the evolution in style of the Jamet-inspired 2018. Leafy, spicy, rose petal aromas are supported by pure red berry fruit, detailed tannins and the faintest hint of oak.

Vinous (98)

Last but certainly not least, the 2019 Quinta do Noval Naçional Vintage Port comes from Noval’s un-grafted vines and undergoes essentially the same maturation as the regular Noval. It is more backward on the nose compared to the Noval, demands time to open, before eventually revealing black cherries, tar, tobacco and clove. A touch of smoke and eucalyptus make an appearance with time. The palate is absolutely sublime with a perfectly judged line of acidity; a Naçional that is full of tension and energy, finely chiselled tannins and an enthralling crescendo towards the spicy and peppery finish. This is quite profound.

Vinous (92)

The 2019 Quinta do Vesuvio comes from a vineyard with a north-facing exposure and foot-trodden. The wine is quite high-toned on the nose with black cherries, blueberry, crushed violet, quince jelly and truffle aromas, a hint of smoke in the background. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins, a little angular upon first pouring, though coalescing in the glass. Black pepper and touches of sage furnish the finish that gently fans out, although one gets the impression that it is holding something back. One for more patient Port-lovers. 770 cases produced (13 pipes)

Vinous (95)

The 2019 Cabernet Franc Dolomite has an energetic, tensile nose of wonderfully defined red and black fruit, sage, bell pepper and clove aromas; hints of dried blood emerge with time. The palate is very well balanced, taut and fresh, with supple tannins, a fine bead of acidity, a harmonious, sophisticated finish, and suggestions of black pepper on the aftertaste. This is a brilliant Cabernet Franc from Raats that will age gloriously.

Tim Atkin MW (92)

Now into its third vintage - and showing its highest alcohol yet at a towering 11% alcohol - this very rare Cinsault Blanc is sourced from a 0.2-hectare parcel on granite in Wellington. Naturally fermented in clay amphorae, it's salty and very fresh, with lemongrass and citrus peel flavours. 2021-25

Tim Atkin MW (94)

"Massive acidities" is how Donovan Rall describes the 2019 white wines, and he's not exaggerating. This concrete egg-fermented Grenache Blanc comes from a single vineyard at 620 metres in Piekenierskloof and is a case in point. Peachy, pithy and linear with bready undertones and a tangy, textural finish. 2021-25

Christian Eedes (94)

65% Syrah, 13% Grenache, 13% Cinsault and 9% Carignan. The nose is particularly expressive with notes of red and black berries, cured meat, lavender, herbs and pepper while the palate is rich and flavourful but equally not short of freshness – a bit less foursquare than preceding vintages have tended to be. Complex and satisfying.

Experience an intoxicating marvel of German viticulture, the Reichsrat von Buhl Forster Kirchenstuck Riesling GG 2019. This superior Grosses Gewachs (GG) wine comes from the renowned Pfalz region, famed for its mineral rich, sandy soil. Reichsrat von Buhl, a certified organic producer accountable for this exceptional wine, has been passionately involved in wine-making since 1849. This vintage represents their commitment to sustainability and respectful vineyard management.

The 2019 Forster Kirchenstuck captures the quintessential qualities of Riesling - bright, sharp and incredibly complex. Its aroma entertains charming notes of citrus fruits intertwined with mineral undertones, whilst the palate embodies an exquisite play between sweet and tart. With a harmonious finish and an undertone of spicy earthiness, this wine is a testament to meticulous winemaking. Savour the Reichsrat von Buhl Forster Kirchenstuck Riesling GG 2019, a true portrayal of the unique terroir of Pfalz Region.

Christian Eedes (97)

A challenging vintage that compelled Wessels to undertake nine passes through his 2ha vineyard as opposed to the usual five to seven. This attention to detail has paid off as this is the best vintage of Ava Marie yet. On the nose, a hint of flinty reduction before citrus, almond and leesy complexity while the palate shows great fruit concentration without being too weighty or thick-textured. The fruit is pure but there is already remarkable detail, the wine possessing a silky feel in the mouth, the finish super-dry. Matured for 11 months in mainly 500-litre barrels, some 10% new. Alcohol: 13%.

Tim Atkin MW (94)

In certain vintages, Cornerstone can be one of the best value wines in the Reyneke portfolio. Marrying Cabernet Franc with 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, with maturation in 15% new wood, this no longer includes Merlot and is all the better for it. Graceful, granular and leafy, with caressing tannins, fine oak and bright plum and red berry flavours.

Tim Atkin MW (98)

Consistently among the Cape's greatest red wines, this is a brilliant, world-class Syrah that ages convincingly too. Thyme, rosemary and oregano aromas leap out of the glass, offering a prelude to a palate that is dense, layered and intense, with black pepper and tapenade flavours, thrilling minerality and effortless complexity.

Tim Atkin MW (96)

Any list of the world's greatest Sauvignon Blancs would be incomplete without this wine. Wood smoke and blackcurrant leaf aromas are a prelude to a palate of remarkable complexity and salinity, with savoury oak, fresh herb and pink grapefruit flavours and a finish that lingers on the palate for a minute

Vinous (95)

The 2019 Syrah Biodynamic is drop-dead gorgeous on the nose, offering blackberry, blueberry, crushed violet and light star anise aromas that blossom with aeration. The palate is medium-bodied with velvety tannins and great depth and intensity, equaled by a finesse that leaves you wanting more on the finish. A sublime Syrah from Johan Reyneke.

James Suckling (97)

Deep, dense and subtle, this is an imposing wine, yet remains so vital and animating. Shimmering with a thousand facets, but also with a forthright, nectarine note that makes it instantly appealing. Brilliant finish that reminds us what it's like to be up in high mountains – the light, the air. Drink or hold.

James Suckling (95)

A whiff of smoky mystery sucks you into this concentrated and very elegant dry wine that has strident minerality through the very long, driving finish. Great aging potential. Drink or hold.

James Suckling (99)

This starts as discreetly as Ravel’s Bolero, the peachy aromas of the Rheingau now just beginning to emerge from behind their veil of yeast from the long maturation in barrel. Then this wine, like Bolero, steadily climbs to a very exciting and expressive conclusion. Then you experience the mineral side of this grape and region in great purity. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.

James Suckling (99)

This starts as discreetly as Ravel’s Bolero, the peachy aromas of the Rheingau now just beginning to emerge from behind their veil of yeast from the long maturation in barrel. Then this wine, like Bolero, steadily climbs to a very exciting and expressive conclusion. Then you experience the mineral side of this grape and region in great purity. Drinkable now, but best from 2023.

Wine Advocate (96+)

From Bürgstadt’s coolish terroir, the 2019 Centgrafenberg Spätburgunder GG offers possibly the deepest, most intense and complete as well as generous bouquet of Fürst's 2019 Pinot trio, yet it still preserves this delicate, finessed and floral Pinot fruit that is reminiscent of dark cherries, black berries and raspberries with a touch of black cake, here combined with toasty notes. Silky, round and juicy on the palate, this is a full-bodied, very intense and concentrated yet lush and elegant Pinot with firm tannins and a tight, sustainably intense and salty finish with good mineral freshness. This is a highly promising Centgrafenberg that no Pinot lover should miss buying. Tasted in Wiesbaden in August 2021.

Vinous (92)

The 2019 Pofadder contains 80% whole-cluster Cinsault matured in used _foudre_. It has an extremely well-defined bouquet of pine cones and mint-infused red fruit. The palate is well balanced with good grip on the entry, a mixture of raspberry and wild strawberry fruit leading to an herbal finish that just needs a little more grip and density. Still, this is an excellent OVS from Sadie, though I would not put it at the top of the pile this year.

The Schafer Frohlich Bockenauer Stromberg Riesling GG 2019 is a radiant product meticulously crafted by the reputable Tim Fröhlich. Nestled in the heart of Germany's Nahe region, this fine wine embodies the philosophy of the producer, showcasing the exceptional terroir with an uncompromising purity. The wine is characterised by its stunning depth, imbued with the classic Riesling aromas of green apple and white peach, intertwined with the unique stony mineral character derived from the Stromberg's blue slate soils.

Fermented with wild yeasts and matured in large, neutral oak casks, the Schafer Frohlich Bockenauer Stromberg Riesling GG 2019 captures the essence of the vintage through precision and balance. It thrills the palate with an array of delicate fruit flavours and captivating acidity, culminating in a long, complex finish. A consummate portrayal of 2019's harvest, this is a wine of stellar depth, structure and longevity, representing the pinnacle of quality Riesling.

The Schafer Frohlich Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling GG Trocken 2019 is a luxurious sensory experience hailing from the celebrated vineyards of Nahe, Germany. Employing traditional Riesling production methods, this fine wine is a profound reflection of its volcanic origin. This grand cru takes Riesling to its pinnacle, demonstrating minerality, precision, and a thrilling citrus profile.

The Schäfer-Fröhlich winery, boasting 20 hectares of vineyards and a profound dedication to viticulture, expertly created this expressive Riesling. Their stringent selection process and dedication to hand-harvesting only the finest grapes contribute to the unique character of the Schafer Frohlich Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling GG Trocken 2019.

This wine proudly showcases a natural fermentation, enhancing its vibrant character and revealing notes of stone fruits, underlined by a zesty freshness. Meticulously aged for 15 months in German oak barrels, it possesses an irresistible charm and a long-lasting finish, confirming its status as a must-have addition to any fine wine collection.

The Schafer Frohlich Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling GG Trocken 2019 is a luxurious sensory experience hailing from the celebrated vineyards of Nahe, Germany. Employing traditional Riesling production methods, this fine wine is a profound reflection of its volcanic origin. This grand cru takes Riesling to its pinnacle, demonstrating minerality, precision, and a thrilling citrus profile.

The Schäfer-Fröhlich winery, boasting 20 hectares of vineyards and a profound dedication to viticulture, expertly created this expressive Riesling. Their stringent selection process and dedication to hand-harvesting only the finest grapes contribute to the unique character of the Schafer Frohlich Schlossbockelheimer Felsenberg Riesling GG Trocken 2019.

This wine proudly showcases a natural fermentation, enhancing its vibrant character and revealing notes of stone fruits, underlined by a zesty freshness. Meticulously aged for 15 months in German oak barrels, it possesses an irresistible charm and a long-lasting finish, confirming its status as a must-have addition to any fine wine collection.

Experience the captivating elegance of the Schafer-Frohlich Felseneck Riesling Grosses Gewachs 2019. This exceptional wine, produced by the renowned, family-run Schafer-Frohlich estate, is celebrated for its intense minerality and vibrant fruity complexity. Skilfully crafted in the Nahe region of Germany, this Grosses Gewachs - or 'great growth' - stands as a testament to the exquisite Riesling grapes harvested from the steep, slate-rich Felseneck vineyard.

The 2019 vintage showcases the house's signature biodynamic practices, artfully combining hand-harvesting, spontaneous fermentation in traditional oak barrels, and meticulous ageing for a refined balance of natural acidity and nuanced flavour profiles. Expect invigorating notes of lemon peel, white peaches, and an undercurrent of steely minerality. The Schafer-Frohlich Felseneck Riesling Grosses Gewachs 2019 is a masterpiece of enology and a true expression of terroir, upholding the estate’s uncompromising commitment to quality and finesse. Perfect for those who value precision, authenticity, and the sophisticated beauty of Riesling at its finest.

James Suckling (95)

The combination of cool, peachy aroma and flintiness makes the nose of this wine totally ravishing. Then, the brilliant minerality on the sleek and sharply focused palate adds another compelling argument for the greatness of this wine. Love the very long, crystalline finish. Drink or hold.

James Suckling (100)

Tasting this makes me feel like Goethe is just about to walk in the door! Self-confidently old-fashioned in the way that a 1920s Bentley car or an 1820s Breguet pocket watch is. Yes, you can analyze and note that there’s an oxidative side to it, but the combination of creaminess and silky bone-dryness is like nothing else I can think of. And below the waterline of direct perception is a gigantic structure that drives the mind-blowing finish! Matured for 30 months in neutral wooden casks. Drinkable now, but best from 2024.