South Africa
At the bottom of its great continent, South Africa is a country of unlimited natural advantages. With the confluence of two oceans at the Cape, the sheltering effect of inland mountain chains and some of the most dynamic soils in the world, every piece is in place for the production of fine wine. The most well-known region has historically been Stellenbosch, but it is the wines of Swartland that have really turned South African wine on its head in recent years.
The wine industry is in the midst of a renaissance with classically styled wines making full advantage of remarkable terroir and an adventurous spirit. As a result, South Africa is producing some truly exceptional wines of great character and value. Striking blockbuster Syrahs and Bordeaux blends to full bodied Chardonnay and crisp Sauvignon Blanc are some of this great nation’s offerings. South Africa’s own grape, Pinotage, leaves critics divided yet can produce excellent single-variety offerings as well as distinguished Cape blends.
South Africa
| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Coastal Region | 1 | 90 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£132.29 |
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Vinous (90)The 2017 Man In The Moon comes from a block of Clairette Blanche that is shared with Craven, the vines 30 years old, and matured in used oak. It has a refulgent straw color with fat tears. The generous bouquet features yellow plum, nectarine, candle wax and light vervain tea aromas. The palate is quite phenolic on the entry, well balanced with a waxy texture and resinous in style; ginger and light pepper notes emerge toward the finish. More tactile than overt in fruit, this is a left-field wine from John Seccombe, one I feel is well made and fascinating. |
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Western Cape | 3 | - |
Inc. VAT
£156.29 |
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In the realm of South African wines, the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 is remarkable. Produced in the highly-regarded Swartland region, this wine is crafted by John and Tasha Seccombe, bolstering a reputation for subtlety and sophistication. A limited production is achieved annually, resulting from rigorous hand-picking from venerable, dry-farmed bush vines. The Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 boasts a captivating nose of lemon cream, white flowers, and chamomile. The palate reveals underlying power with intriguing notes of beeswax, green apple, and freestone sprinkled with sea salt. Equipped with a vibrant acidity, it assures a long, resonant finish. The wine undergoes natural fermentation in old French oak, followed by 10 months of maturation featuring regular lees stirring. This process refined its texture, offering a layered, caressing mouthfeel. An Old World-style Semillon principally tailored for the contemporary palate, the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 is undeniably a refined liquid delicacy. |
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Western Cape | 29 | 93 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£192.04 |
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Vinous (93)The 2017 Rocking Horse is a blend of five grape varieties that was matured in used oak. It has a knockout bouquet of well-defined citrus peel, orange blossom, nutmeg and light peppery scents. The palate is well balanced, with a fine bead of acidity and quite saline in the mouth, and displays lovely viscosity toward a finish that feels full of tension. In a word: rocking. |
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Western Cape | 1 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£469.24 |
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Vinous (92)The 2019 Rocking Horse is a blend of 36% Roussanne, 25% Sémillon, 22% Chenin Blanc, 11% Chardonnay and 6% Clairette Blanche. It has a winsome bouquet of citrus fruit, chamomile and almond shavings, all very well defined. The focused, vibrant palate delivers a fine bead of acidity and a gentle, apricot-tinged finish. Lovely. |
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Western Cape | 1 | 96 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£163.24 |
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Vinous (96)The 2020 Rocking Horse is a blend of 35% Sémillon, 28% Roussanne, 16% Chardonnay, 15% Chenin Blanc and 6% Clairette Blanche, whole-bunch-pressed and matured in used oak. It has a well-defined, flor-like bouquet offering brioche, grilled walnut, bales of straw and smoke. The fabulous palate presents a sensual honeyed texture effortlessly counterbalanced by acidity. Very harmonious, revealing dried honey, walnut and ginger on the finish. This is a masterclass in winemaking and it will age brilliantly in bottle... if you can resist pulling that cork. |
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Western Cape | 2 | 97 (CE) |
Inc. VAT
£142.84 |
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Christian Eedes (97)32% Roussanne, 29% Semillon, 19% Chardonnay, 16% Chenin Blanc and 4% Clairette Blanche sourced from the Cape winelands. Sensational aromatics of green, white and yellow fruit, flowers, herbs and spice plus a touch of flinty reduction – very expressive but not at all vulgar or overwrought. The palate has great fruit definition, a lovely line of acidity and finish that is long and dry. Precisely made, the whole very much more than the sum of the parts. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£146.44 |
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Experience the exquisite craftsmanship of Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2017. This majestic South African vintage is produced from venerable old bush vines in the Franschhoek Valley. Expertly crafted by winemaking duo John and Tasha Seccombe, it exudes an expression of fruit purity without parallel. Handpicked grapes, gentle basket pressing, and oak fermentation contribute to its distinctive profile. Bright straw in colour, the wine's bouquet is ripe with star-fruit and fennel notes, while the palate enchants with a brilliant interplay of concentrated citrus, waxy apple textures, and salivating acidity. Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2017 sets itself apart in its elegance, complexity, and a clear representation of its terroir. This wine celebrates the creators' love for Semillon, offering a beguiling liquid testament to the couple's commitment to produce South African wines, unmatched in precision, purity, and nuance. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£146.44 |
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Emanating from the esteemed Thorne & Daughters, Semillon Tin Soldier 2018 is a quintessential example of old vine Semillon richness. This wine is meticulously crafted by John and Tasha Seccombe, who founded Thorne & Daughters in the Western Cape of South Africa in 2012. The Seccombes carefully select grapes from remarkable old vineyards across the beautiful Cape, using minimal intervention to elicit the essence of their terroir. The Semillon Tin Soldier 2018 is produced from old Whole Berry Pressed Semillon Gris vines, aged for 10 months on its fine lees in neutral oak. The wine exudes elegance with its splendid textures and refined fruit profile -predominantly apple and quince- underscored by a streak of savoury, saline complexity. Its appealing acidity and focused finish lend it an exquisite balance. Relish the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2018's immense depth and personality, a wraparound experience of quality South African wine at its finest. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£221.09 |
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Indulge in the splendour of the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021. Hailing from the esteemed Swartland region of South Africa, this unique semillon was crafted by celebrated husband and wife team, John and Tasha Seccombe. Their dedication to artisanal winemaking is vividly expressed in this dawn-picked, whole-bunch pressed, and spontaneous fermented vine treasure. Renowned for its strict selection of old vine parcels, the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021 champions a harmonious union of quality and character. Expect a stunning expression of ripe pear and apricot notes, fused with subtle hints of crushed river pebbles and fragrant elderflower. Acidity is expertly balanced, leading into a lingering, mineral finish. With only a limited production run, this wine is a testament to the winemaker’s meticulous attention to detail, and impeccable sense of timing. The Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021 is a tasteful masterpiece befitting the discerning palates of fine wine connoisseurs. |
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Western Cape | 23 | 91 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£128.44 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Wanderer’s Heart is a multiregional blend of Rhône varieties driven by the Grenache, matured in used oak with higher proportion of whole clusters on the Grenache. It has a floral, pure bouquet that features light scents of broom, fennel and white pepper. The palate is well balanced with gentle grip in the mouth, nice structure (perhaps more so than expected) and a precise, lightly spiced finish where the Mourvèdre imparts a subtle medicinal note. Excellent. |
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Western Cape | 10 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£128.44 |
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Vinous (92)The 2018 Wanderer’s Heart has a lovely, lilting bouquet of wild strawberry, dark cherries, pressed rose petals and light fynbos scents. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and moderate fruit concentration. The fleshy, slightly herbal finish is nicely composed. This is very well crafted by John Seccombe. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95+ (GS) |
Inc. VAT
£211.24 |
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Greg Sherwood MW (95+)This really is a sensational expression from Andre and the team at Vergelegen. A blend of 20% Sauvignon and 80% Semillon, this wine screams premium white Bordeaux from the minute you smell the alluring aromatics. All the classical white Bordeaux hallmark notes are there including a crunchy white citrus, grapefruit zest, pineapple pastille fruits, lime peel, dried coconut and reductive hints of black currant and vinyl. The palate is broad and powerful with a leading edge of sweet and sour grapefruit acidity, tangerine juice, green mango flesh and white citrus fruit intensity. Slightly pithy with hints of dried grass, this wine is a never ending profusion of fruit concentration, minerality and dried herb complexity all knitted together in a very tight, intense, classical package. This wine would go down an absolute treat blind with the Bordelaise producers in the Graves or Pessac-Leognan. With pyrazines well and truly conquered in this wine, this expression is lined up for a long and successful ageing period. Drink from release and for another 12 to 15+ years. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£235.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Reviewed alongside the 2018 release as they are both on the market, this is Semillon dominated with 40% Sauvignon Blanc. Barrel-aged in one-third new oak, it has flinty, struck match aromas, stylish wood spice, notes of lanolin and grapefruit and a pithy, refreshing finish. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£165.64 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Every bit as good as the 2017, even though the vintage is less celebrated, this is an equal marriage of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc with an even lower pH. Grapefruit and elderflower flavours combine appealingly with the stylish vanilla oak, embellished by a herbal undertone. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£148.84 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Proof the remarkable ageing potential of Vergelegen's flagship white wine - and it's only just settling into its stride - this is a gloriously complex blend of Sauvignon Blanc and 36% Semillon, with appealing freshness and zip, good focus, a salty undertone and flavours of grapefruit, gooseberry and fresh toast. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 18 (JR) |
Inc. VAT
£163.24 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Tasted blind. Blackcurrant pastilles on the really interesting, sophisticated nose. Some savoury inkiness and lots of pleasure. Firm and confident and set for the long term. Lots there with tannin evident only on the end for future development. Long. This is the first wine that reminds me of ambitious bordeaux … luscious – a sort of right-bank style. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 92 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£837.89 |
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Vinous (92)(90% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot and 3% cabernet franc) Bright red-ruby. Aromas of currant, graphite, coffee, dark chocolate and clove; lots of sexy new oak showing. Lush and silky on entry, but has enough acidity to frame and enliven its deep flavors of currant and graphite. This bottling represents a distinctly and intentionally modern style for Vergelegen, but also boasts very good structure and verve. Finishes long and brooding, with palate-saturating flavors and broad, noble tannins. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£709.24 |
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Wine Advocate (93)Showing much better is the 2006 “V” that demonstrates a little more opulence and fruit intensity on the nose with ripe blackberry, raspberry, sloe and cedar with good definition. The palate has firm chalky tannins and a good sense of tension, a citrus-like acidity towards the long poised finish. This has great potential, but again it deserves time in the cellar. Drink 2014-2022. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | - |
Inc. VAT
£872.69 |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 93 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£837.89 |
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Vinous (93)(100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 24 months in 100% new oak followed by three years in bottle prior to release): Good deep, bright red. Explosive truffley perfume to the complex aromas of cassis, licorice, violet, graphite and cedar. Plush, fat and seamless, filling the mouth without leaving any impression of weight. Has a texture of liquid silk. Finishes with noble, tooth-saturating tannins and outstanding persistence. The ancient granite soild give low yields and small, concentrated berries at 14% to 14.5% potential alcohol, notes van Rensburg. We can't go above 14.5% or we lose too much acidity. He added that Michel Rolland is now adding some Cabernet Franc and Merlot to this previously 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine. All of my great work is undone, he joked. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£709.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Made as a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon since 2008, this is the top red at Vergelegen and demonstrates André van Rensburg’s mastery of the variety. It’s a focused, classically proportioned red, combining freshness with concentration, suppleness with structure. Aromatic and refined, it has plenty more to give. |
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Coastal Region | 3 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£643.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)First made in 2001, with a break in 2002 and 2010, V is the top wine at Vergelegen and is suitably ambitious stuff, aged entirely in new oak. Polished, elegant and refined, with smooth tannins, notes of graphite and iron and a long, complex finish that promises more in bottle. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£559.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Give or take 2% Cabernet Franc, this is a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 100% new wood. It’s a brilliantly focused wine that carries its 14.5% alcohol lightly, with notes of tobacco and aromatic spices, filigree tannins and layers of mint, green herbs and dark fruit. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£487.24 |
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Wine Advocate (97)The 2019 Series C opens with a broad and structured nose that displays elegant oak tones and a juicy and fresh frame of succulent dark red fruits, offering power and finesse with a delightful mineral essence that overflows with plum skin and spiced cherries. Medium to full-bodied, the Series C offers a fine-grained tannic edge that possesses the focus, elegance and precision of a world-class wine. Vibrant acidity excites the palate with a succulent balance across the mid-palate, revealing layers of complexity as the wine somersaults to a long, lingering, juicy, oak-tinged finish. This is some of South Africa’s finest juice, which has me smitten. Bravo! I’m going to finish the glass! Give it one more year in the bottle and drink it over the next couple of decades. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£644.44 |
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Wine Advocate (99)Flirting with triple digits, the 2021 Series C is constructed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Still incredibly tight yet exuding that special “it” factor, the red blend is layered with gorgeous dark red and succulent black fruit tones with gobs of attractive oak essences that sway with power and finesse. If you're a cult California Cabernet collector, you'll want to add this to your cellar as fast as possible. Just under 20,000 bottles rested for about two years in French oak barrels, 81% new. It's utterly profound. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 94 (DC) |
Inc. VAT
£203.72 |
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Decanter (94)Exciting flavours of sweet mulberry, black plum, cinnamon and cedar. Super fresh and elegant, concentrated yet light on its feet. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | - |
Inc. VAT
£451.49 |
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Savour the esteemed Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc 2019, an exquisite expression of skilled wine crafting from South Africa's renowned Voor-Paardeberg region. Masterfully cultivated from 40-year-old dryland bush vineyards, this exceptional Chenin Blanc offers compelling complexity with notes of ripe pear, honeydew melon, and butterscotch. Achieving its opulence from 12 months of oak maturation in French oak barrels, Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc’s layered richness is beautifully buttressed by an invigorating undercurrent of bright acidity, making it an unparagoned accompaniment to an array of gourmet indulgences. Founded in the 17th century and harnessing traditional winemaking techniques, Vondeling wines are always a toast to excellence. Respectful of the land's heritage, their wine adorn your glass with unrivalled quality. Savour the sip of Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc 2019, and partake in a timeless tradition of winemaking brilliance. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£504.29 |
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The Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 is an exemplification of sublime craftsmanship from the verdurous commercial vineyards of the Voor-Paardeberg mountains in South Africa's Paarl Wine Route. Produced by Vondeling Wines, renowned for their relentless devotion to ecological farming, this Pinotage is an intoxicating blend of 85% Pinotage, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Grenache Noir from their sustainably managed 10-year-old vines. The grapes underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel, culminating into a well-rounded texture. The Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 presents a regal burgundy hue with a captivating bouquet of cherries, plums and succulent ripe fruit, augmented by whimsical hints of oak, vanilla and spice. On the palate, it unfurls with a certain finesse, delivering an elegant fusion of berries, dark chocolate and soft tannins. This wine gracefully unravels all the harmonious complexities of a mature Pinotage, making Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 a true magnum opus for every fine wine enthusiast. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£722.69 |
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Experience the exquisite taste of the Vondeling Philosophie 2015, an exceptional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec. This rare wine, hailing from Voor-Paardeberg, South Africa, boasts a captivating deep red hue and intoxicating nose of blackberry, cedar, and cigar box. The Vondeling winery follows traditional winemaking processes, including handpicking and sorting grapes, to maintain optimum quality. The wine, matured for 24 months in French oak barrels, imparts a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and well-integrated tannins. The palate is layered and complex, featuring flavours of blackcurrant, cherry, and spice with a long, elegant finish. Vondeling Philosophie 2015 is the winery's flagship wine, reflecting not only their philosophy but also their passion for creating wines of distinction. This collectable limited production wine, with only 4,200 bottles released, truly exemplifies the winery’s dedication to crafting the finest quality wares. Vondeling Philosophie 2015 is an absolute must-try for discerning connoisseurs. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£307.24 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Often among my favourite Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignons, this textbook Helderberg red was blended with 3% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc in 2017. Scented, refined and effortlessly dense and complex, with aromatic 30% new wood, mocha, cedarwood and cassis flavours and a long, balanced, herbal finish. 2022-29 |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
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Coastal Region | 1 | 90 (VN) |
In Bond
£91.00 |
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Vinous (90)The 2017 Man In The Moon comes from a block of Clairette Blanche that is shared with Craven, the vines 30 years old, and matured in used oak. It has a refulgent straw color with fat tears. The generous bouquet features yellow plum, nectarine, candle wax and light vervain tea aromas. The palate is quite phenolic on the entry, well balanced with a waxy texture and resinous in style; ginger and light pepper notes emerge toward the finish. More tactile than overt in fruit, this is a left-field wine from John Seccombe, one I feel is well made and fascinating. |
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Western Cape | 3 | - |
In Bond
£111.00 |
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In the realm of South African wines, the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 is remarkable. Produced in the highly-regarded Swartland region, this wine is crafted by John and Tasha Seccombe, bolstering a reputation for subtlety and sophistication. A limited production is achieved annually, resulting from rigorous hand-picking from venerable, dry-farmed bush vines. The Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 boasts a captivating nose of lemon cream, white flowers, and chamomile. The palate reveals underlying power with intriguing notes of beeswax, green apple, and freestone sprinkled with sea salt. Equipped with a vibrant acidity, it assures a long, resonant finish. The wine undergoes natural fermentation in old French oak, followed by 10 months of maturation featuring regular lees stirring. This process refined its texture, offering a layered, caressing mouthfeel. An Old World-style Semillon principally tailored for the contemporary palate, the Thorne & Daughters Paper Kite Semillon 2017 is undeniably a refined liquid delicacy. |
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Western Cape | 29 | 93 (VN) |
In Bond
£144.00 |
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Vinous (93)The 2017 Rocking Horse is a blend of five grape varieties that was matured in used oak. It has a knockout bouquet of well-defined citrus peel, orange blossom, nutmeg and light peppery scents. The palate is well balanced, with a fine bead of acidity and quite saline in the mouth, and displays lovely viscosity toward a finish that feels full of tension. In a word: rocking. |
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Western Cape | 1 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£375.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2019 Rocking Horse is a blend of 36% Roussanne, 25% Sémillon, 22% Chenin Blanc, 11% Chardonnay and 6% Clairette Blanche. It has a winsome bouquet of citrus fruit, chamomile and almond shavings, all very well defined. The focused, vibrant palate delivers a fine bead of acidity and a gentle, apricot-tinged finish. Lovely. |
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Western Cape | 1 | 96 (VN) |
In Bond
£120.00 |
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Vinous (96)The 2020 Rocking Horse is a blend of 35% Sémillon, 28% Roussanne, 16% Chardonnay, 15% Chenin Blanc and 6% Clairette Blanche, whole-bunch-pressed and matured in used oak. It has a well-defined, flor-like bouquet offering brioche, grilled walnut, bales of straw and smoke. The fabulous palate presents a sensual honeyed texture effortlessly counterbalanced by acidity. Very harmonious, revealing dried honey, walnut and ginger on the finish. This is a masterclass in winemaking and it will age brilliantly in bottle... if you can resist pulling that cork. |
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Western Cape | 2 | 97 (CE) |
In Bond
£103.00 |
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Christian Eedes (97)32% Roussanne, 29% Semillon, 19% Chardonnay, 16% Chenin Blanc and 4% Clairette Blanche sourced from the Cape winelands. Sensational aromatics of green, white and yellow fruit, flowers, herbs and spice plus a touch of flinty reduction – very expressive but not at all vulgar or overwrought. The palate has great fruit definition, a lovely line of acidity and finish that is long and dry. Precisely made, the whole very much more than the sum of the parts. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
In Bond
£106.00 |
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Experience the exquisite craftsmanship of Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2017. This majestic South African vintage is produced from venerable old bush vines in the Franschhoek Valley. Expertly crafted by winemaking duo John and Tasha Seccombe, it exudes an expression of fruit purity without parallel. Handpicked grapes, gentle basket pressing, and oak fermentation contribute to its distinctive profile. Bright straw in colour, the wine's bouquet is ripe with star-fruit and fennel notes, while the palate enchants with a brilliant interplay of concentrated citrus, waxy apple textures, and salivating acidity. Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2017 sets itself apart in its elegance, complexity, and a clear representation of its terroir. This wine celebrates the creators' love for Semillon, offering a beguiling liquid testament to the couple's commitment to produce South African wines, unmatched in precision, purity, and nuance. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
In Bond
£106.00 |
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Emanating from the esteemed Thorne & Daughters, Semillon Tin Soldier 2018 is a quintessential example of old vine Semillon richness. This wine is meticulously crafted by John and Tasha Seccombe, who founded Thorne & Daughters in the Western Cape of South Africa in 2012. The Seccombes carefully select grapes from remarkable old vineyards across the beautiful Cape, using minimal intervention to elicit the essence of their terroir. The Semillon Tin Soldier 2018 is produced from old Whole Berry Pressed Semillon Gris vines, aged for 10 months on its fine lees in neutral oak. The wine exudes elegance with its splendid textures and refined fruit profile -predominantly apple and quince- underscored by a streak of savoury, saline complexity. Its appealing acidity and focused finish lend it an exquisite balance. Relish the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2018's immense depth and personality, a wraparound experience of quality South African wine at its finest. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | - |
In Bond
£165.00 |
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Indulge in the splendour of the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021. Hailing from the esteemed Swartland region of South Africa, this unique semillon was crafted by celebrated husband and wife team, John and Tasha Seccombe. Their dedication to artisanal winemaking is vividly expressed in this dawn-picked, whole-bunch pressed, and spontaneous fermented vine treasure. Renowned for its strict selection of old vine parcels, the Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021 champions a harmonious union of quality and character. Expect a stunning expression of ripe pear and apricot notes, fused with subtle hints of crushed river pebbles and fragrant elderflower. Acidity is expertly balanced, leading into a lingering, mineral finish. With only a limited production run, this wine is a testament to the winemaker’s meticulous attention to detail, and impeccable sense of timing. The Thorne & Daughters Semillon Tin Soldier 2021 is a tasteful masterpiece befitting the discerning palates of fine wine connoisseurs. |
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Western Cape | 23 | 91 (VN) |
In Bond
£91.00 |
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Vinous (91)The 2017 Wanderer’s Heart is a multiregional blend of Rhône varieties driven by the Grenache, matured in used oak with higher proportion of whole clusters on the Grenache. It has a floral, pure bouquet that features light scents of broom, fennel and white pepper. The palate is well balanced with gentle grip in the mouth, nice structure (perhaps more so than expected) and a precise, lightly spiced finish where the Mourvèdre imparts a subtle medicinal note. Excellent. |
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Western Cape | 10 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£91.00 |
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Vinous (92)The 2018 Wanderer’s Heart has a lovely, lilting bouquet of wild strawberry, dark cherries, pressed rose petals and light fynbos scents. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins and moderate fruit concentration. The fleshy, slightly herbal finish is nicely composed. This is very well crafted by John Seccombe. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95+ (GS) |
In Bond
£160.00 |
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Greg Sherwood MW (95+)This really is a sensational expression from Andre and the team at Vergelegen. A blend of 20% Sauvignon and 80% Semillon, this wine screams premium white Bordeaux from the minute you smell the alluring aromatics. All the classical white Bordeaux hallmark notes are there including a crunchy white citrus, grapefruit zest, pineapple pastille fruits, lime peel, dried coconut and reductive hints of black currant and vinyl. The palate is broad and powerful with a leading edge of sweet and sour grapefruit acidity, tangerine juice, green mango flesh and white citrus fruit intensity. Slightly pithy with hints of dried grass, this wine is a never ending profusion of fruit concentration, minerality and dried herb complexity all knitted together in a very tight, intense, classical package. This wine would go down an absolute treat blind with the Bordelaise producers in the Graves or Pessac-Leognan. With pyrazines well and truly conquered in this wine, this expression is lined up for a long and successful ageing period. Drink from release and for another 12 to 15+ years. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£180.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Reviewed alongside the 2018 release as they are both on the market, this is Semillon dominated with 40% Sauvignon Blanc. Barrel-aged in one-third new oak, it has flinty, struck match aromas, stylish wood spice, notes of lanolin and grapefruit and a pithy, refreshing finish. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£122.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Every bit as good as the 2017, even though the vintage is less celebrated, this is an equal marriage of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc with an even lower pH. Grapefruit and elderflower flavours combine appealingly with the stylish vanilla oak, embellished by a herbal undertone. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£108.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Proof the remarkable ageing potential of Vergelegen's flagship white wine - and it's only just settling into its stride - this is a gloriously complex blend of Sauvignon Blanc and 36% Semillon, with appealing freshness and zip, good focus, a salty undertone and flavours of grapefruit, gooseberry and fresh toast. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 18 (JR) |
In Bond
£120.00 |
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Jancis Robinson (18)Tasted blind. Blackcurrant pastilles on the really interesting, sophisticated nose. Some savoury inkiness and lots of pleasure. Firm and confident and set for the long term. Lots there with tannin evident only on the end for future development. Long. This is the first wine that reminds me of ambitious bordeaux … luscious – a sort of right-bank style. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 92 (VN) |
In Bond
£679.00 |
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Vinous (92)(90% cabernet sauvignon, 7% merlot and 3% cabernet franc) Bright red-ruby. Aromas of currant, graphite, coffee, dark chocolate and clove; lots of sexy new oak showing. Lush and silky on entry, but has enough acidity to frame and enliven its deep flavors of currant and graphite. This bottling represents a distinctly and intentionally modern style for Vergelegen, but also boasts very good structure and verve. Finishes long and brooding, with palate-saturating flavors and broad, noble tannins. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 93 (WA) |
In Bond
£575.00 |
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Wine Advocate (93)Showing much better is the 2006 “V” that demonstrates a little more opulence and fruit intensity on the nose with ripe blackberry, raspberry, sloe and cedar with good definition. The palate has firm chalky tannins and a good sense of tension, a citrus-like acidity towards the long poised finish. This has great potential, but again it deserves time in the cellar. Drink 2014-2022. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | - |
In Bond
£708.00 |
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Coastal Region | 2 | 93 (VN) |
In Bond
£679.00 |
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Vinous (93)(100% Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 24 months in 100% new oak followed by three years in bottle prior to release): Good deep, bright red. Explosive truffley perfume to the complex aromas of cassis, licorice, violet, graphite and cedar. Plush, fat and seamless, filling the mouth without leaving any impression of weight. Has a texture of liquid silk. Finishes with noble, tooth-saturating tannins and outstanding persistence. The ancient granite soild give low yields and small, concentrated berries at 14% to 14.5% potential alcohol, notes van Rensburg. We can't go above 14.5% or we lose too much acidity. He added that Michel Rolland is now adding some Cabernet Franc and Merlot to this previously 100% Cabernet Sauvignon wine. All of my great work is undone, he joked. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£575.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Made as a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon since 2008, this is the top red at Vergelegen and demonstrates André van Rensburg’s mastery of the variety. It’s a focused, classically proportioned red, combining freshness with concentration, suppleness with structure. Aromatic and refined, it has plenty more to give. |
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Coastal Region | 3 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£520.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)First made in 2001, with a break in 2002 and 2010, V is the top wine at Vergelegen and is suitably ambitious stuff, aged entirely in new oak. Polished, elegant and refined, with smooth tannins, notes of graphite and iron and a long, complex finish that promises more in bottle. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£450.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Give or take 2% Cabernet Franc, this is a varietal Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in 100% new wood. It’s a brilliantly focused wine that carries its 14.5% alcohol lightly, with notes of tobacco and aromatic spices, filigree tannins and layers of mint, green herbs and dark fruit. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (WA) |
In Bond
£390.00 |
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Wine Advocate (97)The 2019 Series C opens with a broad and structured nose that displays elegant oak tones and a juicy and fresh frame of succulent dark red fruits, offering power and finesse with a delightful mineral essence that overflows with plum skin and spiced cherries. Medium to full-bodied, the Series C offers a fine-grained tannic edge that possesses the focus, elegance and precision of a world-class wine. Vibrant acidity excites the palate with a succulent balance across the mid-palate, revealing layers of complexity as the wine somersaults to a long, lingering, juicy, oak-tinged finish. This is some of South Africa’s finest juice, which has me smitten. Bravo! I’m going to finish the glass! Give it one more year in the bottle and drink it over the next couple of decades. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 99 (WA) |
In Bond
£521.00 |
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Wine Advocate (99)Flirting with triple digits, the 2021 Series C is constructed of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec and Cabernet Franc. Still incredibly tight yet exuding that special “it” factor, the red blend is layered with gorgeous dark red and succulent black fruit tones with gobs of attractive oak essences that sway with power and finesse. If you're a cult California Cabernet collector, you'll want to add this to your cellar as fast as possible. Just under 20,000 bottles rested for about two years in French oak barrels, 81% new. It's utterly profound. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 94 (DC) |
In Bond
£153.74 |
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Decanter (94)Exciting flavours of sweet mulberry, black plum, cinnamon and cedar. Super fresh and elegant, concentrated yet light on its feet. |
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Coastal Region | 5 | - |
In Bond
£357.00 |
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Savour the esteemed Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc 2019, an exquisite expression of skilled wine crafting from South Africa's renowned Voor-Paardeberg region. Masterfully cultivated from 40-year-old dryland bush vineyards, this exceptional Chenin Blanc offers compelling complexity with notes of ripe pear, honeydew melon, and butterscotch. Achieving its opulence from 12 months of oak maturation in French oak barrels, Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc’s layered richness is beautifully buttressed by an invigorating undercurrent of bright acidity, making it an unparagoned accompaniment to an array of gourmet indulgences. Founded in the 17th century and harnessing traditional winemaking techniques, Vondeling wines are always a toast to excellence. Respectful of the land's heritage, their wine adorn your glass with unrivalled quality. Savour the sip of Vondeling Bowwood Chenin Blanc 2019, and partake in a timeless tradition of winemaking brilliance. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
In Bond
£401.00 |
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The Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 is an exemplification of sublime craftsmanship from the verdurous commercial vineyards of the Voor-Paardeberg mountains in South Africa's Paarl Wine Route. Produced by Vondeling Wines, renowned for their relentless devotion to ecological farming, this Pinotage is an intoxicating blend of 85% Pinotage, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon and 5% Grenache Noir from their sustainably managed 10-year-old vines. The grapes underwent malolactic fermentation in barrel, culminating into a well-rounded texture. The Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 presents a regal burgundy hue with a captivating bouquet of cherries, plums and succulent ripe fruit, augmented by whimsical hints of oak, vanilla and spice. On the palate, it unfurls with a certain finesse, delivering an elegant fusion of berries, dark chocolate and soft tannins. This wine gracefully unravels all the harmonious complexities of a mature Pinotage, making Vondeling Bowwood Pinotage 2017 a true magnum opus for every fine wine enthusiast. |
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Coastal Region | 2 | - |
In Bond
£583.00 |
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Experience the exquisite taste of the Vondeling Philosophie 2015, an exceptional blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Merlot and Malbec. This rare wine, hailing from Voor-Paardeberg, South Africa, boasts a captivating deep red hue and intoxicating nose of blackberry, cedar, and cigar box. The Vondeling winery follows traditional winemaking processes, including handpicking and sorting grapes, to maintain optimum quality. The wine, matured for 24 months in French oak barrels, imparts a perfect balance of fruit, acidity, and well-integrated tannins. The palate is layered and complex, featuring flavours of blackcurrant, cherry, and spice with a long, elegant finish. Vondeling Philosophie 2015 is the winery's flagship wine, reflecting not only their philosophy but also their passion for creating wines of distinction. This collectable limited production wine, with only 4,200 bottles released, truly exemplifies the winery’s dedication to crafting the finest quality wares. Vondeling Philosophie 2015 is an absolute must-try for discerning connoisseurs. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£240.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)Often among my favourite Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignons, this textbook Helderberg red was blended with 3% Merlot and 2% Cabernet Franc in 2017. Scented, refined and effortlessly dense and complex, with aromatic 30% new wood, mocha, cedarwood and cassis flavours and a long, balanced, herbal finish. 2022-29 |
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