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
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Vinous (93)
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart.Inc. VAT£275.64 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
The nose on this outstanding wine reminds me of an elite Cabernet from another part of the world – Frankland River in Western Australia. There is more than a hint of ‘Houghton Jack Mann’ on the perfume and palate of this wine’s sensational 25th-anniversary release. Underpinning the profoundly deep black fruit notes is a sense of earthiness and energy that allows the blackberry and blackcurrant flavours to soar. With 70% new French oak on board, which has been folded away perfectly into the heart of this mighty wine, there is an extra dimension of flavour here thanks to the addition of a soupcon of Cabernet Franc. Only a handful of South African wines manage to capture this noble grape’s true essence while maintaining a compelling sense of stylishness. 2020 CSF does this in spades and it will continue to do so for two decades.Inc. VAT£247.18 -
(6x75cl) 2009Vinous (94)
The 2009 Semillon is feisty on the nose, with touches of lanolin and white pepper. Hints of beeswax surface with time. The palate has a beautiful texture and fine depth, waxy and very phenolic with a persistent finish. This is almost in the same class as the splendid 2006 and still has plenty in the tank.Inc. VAT£311.60 -
Vinous (91)
The 2017 Sémillon, which has a 3% splash of Muscat of Alexandria, is made with an oxidative winemaking approach. It has a neutral nose, one where I would have liked more Sémillon character to poke through even at this early stage. The palate shows much more potential, presenting lovely lemon curd, toffee apple and white chocolate notes. The acidity is nicely judged, although that toffee note makes me wonder exactly how this will age. A second bottle showed less conspicuous toffee-ish notes and was much more in line with how I expect the wine to show. My score is based on this bottle.Inc. VAT£119.33 -
Tim Atkin MW (99)
Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow!Inc. VAT£321.49 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Boekenhoutskloof's world-class Semillon uses grapes from three distinct blocks in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, combining these with 3% Muscat d'Alexandrie. Showing more acidity and restraint than the stunning 2020, and less of the struck match character, it has notes of lemongrass, custard and beeswax and a core of chiselled acidity. Needs more time.Inc. VAT£220.32 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Matthew Jukes (19)
This ancient vine Semillon (with its hints of blushing Muscat) has never looked more alluring. The expansive but slender chassis gives way to a brittle, teasing finish, and the floral, silver needle, and jasmine notes are overwhelmingly rhythmic and hypnotic. 2022 Boek Sem experience is like no other Semillon on earth.Inc. VAT£226.32 -
Matthew Jukes (18.5+)
Plush and packed with cassis, this is a tremendously flashy wine with deep wells of liqueur-like fruit coupled with strident oak and a lovely bright, dry finish. Yearning to be set free, BCSS is like a prize-fighter itching for the bell so it can launch itself at its opponent. This is an amazing Cabernet and while it has the stuffing to go deep into the later rounds, I love its toned flanks and glistening musculature right now.Inc. VAT£266.38 -
Platter's South African Wine Guide (97)
(Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year) Power & precision combine in stellar 2019. Ripe black cherry fruit with lifted perfume notes (dab of cab franc, as Franschhoek sibling), fine integrated tannins & fresh, lithe appeal. 75% new French oak adds to muscular richness completing a very fine wine. 5 parcels in Helderberg, Polkadraai & Faure.Inc. VAT£221.98 -
(1x75cl) 2010Renowned for meticulous craftsmanship, the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010 originates from select vineyards of the Franschhoek Valley, South Africa. The family-owned Boekenhoutskloof winery, famously committed to sustainable viticulture, has nurtured this exceptional Syrah with great care since 1776. Precisely curated using traditional techniques, each grape is manually destemmed, ensuring an utmost expression of terroir.
Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010 gently matures for 26 months in fine-grained French oak before bottling. The resulting wine exhibits luscious layers of blackberries, spices, and violets, underscored by an intricate and powerful minerality. On the palate, a symphony of complex flavours unfolds, revealing firm, yet refined tannins and a profound depth that promise excellent ageing potential.
This South African gem, often compared favourably with leading French Syrah, elegantly captures the robust elegance of the New World varietals. The Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010, a masterful testament to characterful wine, is a must-have for the discerning connoisseur.
Inc. VAT£111.85 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
I have never forgotten the 2000 vintage of this wine, which I wrote up in one of my books many moons ago. In the blink of an eye, the perfume on this 2018 vintage took me back to that great wine and while this label has been known to wander off into the forest in certain vintages, it is back with a brooding bang and loaded with Hermitage-like malevolence in 2018. With a melange of both red and black fruit tones and considerable aromatic lift on the nose, this is a Syrah with its feet firmly planted in the earth while its head is in the clouds such is the scale and majesty of its posture. Like the other reds in this vintage, the oak integration is near perfect and this allows the fruit to sing. If there is one wine to drink before the other reds, then this is it, and while it might be a criminal offence to drink this wine so young, I am sure you will break the law for a flavour as enthralling and all-encompassing as this one.Inc. VAT£194.75 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
The wine that launched the modern Syrah revolution in South Africa, even if it's sourced from two sites in the Swartland these days, rather than Somerset West. Almost indecently perfumed and alluring, this is a very immediate wine that will also reward cellaring. Sweet spices, red berry fruit, fine, savoury tannins and just a hint of oak with energetic acidity. 2023-31Inc. VAT£215.15 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
With 90% of the fruit coming from Porseleinberg and 10% from Goldmine, both in Swartland, this is a wondrous wine with more detail and finesse than any preceding vintage. Utilising only large foudre, the spice and fruit aromatics are as pure and evocative as I have encountered in a Cape Syrah. While the flavour palette is more deep purple than black-fruited, there is no obvious oak intervention and this allows the fruit to soar. Sanguineous and sappy on the finish, this is a glorious red wine with elemental animal notes interwoven with silky ribbons of beautifully ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and plum flavours. With the same texture and volume of fruit as a Vosne-Romanée, this is a regal creation that distances itself from the meat and muscle often found in sun-loving Syrahs!Inc. VAT£209.15 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Given that 90% of its raw material comes from Porseleinberg - the other 10% comes from Boekenhoutskloof's Roundstone property - it's no surprise that this is such an impressive Syrah. Fermented with 65% whole bunches, it combines fynbos, lavender and Asian spice aromas with a palate of white pepper, barbecued meat, oregano and blackberry framed by sappy, granular tannins. World class.Inc. VAT£220.32 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
With a thrilling perfume that resembles a lusty Morey-Saint-Denis more than a hulking Cornas, this sensual, pliable Syrah has embraced the multifaceted vintage conditions, unveiling an uncommonly prescient and enthralling wine. Totally integrated tannins beneath a shimmering, black-fruited carapace of flesh and spice, this is a genial fellow and the most approachable and civilised Swartland creation in a decade.Inc. VAT£273.95 -
Tim Atkin MW (98)
I’m making this for Syrah fanatics”, says Reenen Borman. Lucky them is all I can say, because this is another stunning release from a brilliant young winemaker. Intense, granitic and spicy, with lovely lavender and garrigue aromas, layers of dark, inky fruit, stylish oak and amazing length. What more do you want from a Syrah? 2020-30Inc. VAT£416.75 -
(1x75cl) 2017Inc. VAT£132.53 -
Inc. VAT£432.80 -
(1x75cl) 2018
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Epilogue Syrah, which is 30% whole bunch fermented and matured for 13 months in 20% new 400-litre oak barrels, has an outstanding, very well defined bouquet with pure black cherries, boysenberry, iodine and violet aromas that are very expressive. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little gamey in style, touches of fennel and white pepper, leading to a caressing, velvety finish very classy.Inc. VAT£85.73 -
The benchmark cuvée from the exceptionally talented Reenen Borman, at the helm of this mythical estate since 2010 - this wine is spoken about in hushed tones amongst experts, critics.
50% whole-bunch fermentation has given the wine monolithic structure, without a single brick out of place. 25% of the wine was raised in 400 litre oak barrels, imparting gentle seasoning and further fine tannins, whilst the remaining 75% was raised in concrete eggs, preserving the fruit's sensational freshness and impossible purity.
Naturally, this wine is infantile due to its quality and structure, but already it displays a mesmeric mélange of violets, dried flowers, herbs and spices on the nose. Positively quivering with energy at this stage, the wine’s acidity shoots like Artemis’ arrow across the palate, losing no momentum through the endless finish. It is hard to overstate the juddering quality of Epilogue – Tim Atkin MW said of the 2017 that it was “now established as one of the Cape’s great Syrahs”... It is now one of the world’s greatest wines.Inc. VAT£383.15 -
IWSC (97)
Very classy wine with nicely judged oak that adds vanilla spice to the tropical fruit and toffee apple flavours. Perfectly poised with crisp acidity and an elegant, long finish.Inc. VAT£229.92 -
(6x75cl) 2018True to its terroir, the Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 merits a noteworthy place in the collection of seasoned oenophiles. This Syrah is lovingly produced in the cool climate of the Walker Bay region, South Africa — a veritable paradise for viticulture. The winemaker, Brunia Wines, an uncompromising artisan renowned for championing sustainability through minimal intervention, imbues this vintage with authentic character.
The Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 skillfully balances bold, aromatic side with elegant, juicy fruit flavours. The deliberate use of whole-bunch fermentation generates pronounced savoury facets, accented by supple tannins and a gratifying length. A slumber of 10 months on French Oak provides a mellowed sophistication, making this wine a testament to Brunia's commitment to harness the very best of the grape.
Mature yet vibrant, layered yet fine-tuned, Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 is an assertive addition to any discerning wine enthusiast's collection, encapsulating the essence of South Africa's stellar wine craftsmanship.
Inc. VAT£173.09 -
(6x75cl) 2018Admire the exquisite character of the Brunia White Walker Bay 2018. Produced in the cool-climate region of Walker Bay, South Africa, this formidable wine is an example of exceptional winemaking. The Brunia family's passion and heritage run deep in each bottle. Their dedication to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking has resulted in an authentic wine of superior quality.
The 2018 vintage flaunts a remarkable golden hue, hinting at the complexity within. It’s a harmonious blend of Chenin Blanc and Viognier, encouraging a superb balance of acidity and opulent fruit flavours. Notes of ripe pear, honeyed apricot, and clean minerality reward the palate, whilst a crème brûlée finish hints at the delicate oak maturation.
To enjoy the Brunia White Walker Bay 2018 to its full potential, allow it to breathe before serving it modestly chilled. Whether experienced as an aperitif or with a meal, this wine is a delightful companion to your culinary journey.
Inc. VAT£173.09 -
Characterised by undying refinement and complexity, the Cape Winemakers Guild De Trafford Reserve Chenin Blanc 2018 is a sterling exhibit of South African artistry. Landed from the sun-drenched vineyards of Stellenbosch, this wine is a creation of acclaimed winemaker David De Trafford. Reserved for the best harvests, the grapes undergo careful selection, ageing on lees for eleven months, imparting this wine with an optimised body and structure.
Each sip unveils a symphony of ripe peach, delicate pineapple, piquant ginger and nuanced nutty undertones, making this full-bodied wine an ambassador of elegance. The Cape Winemakers Guild De Trafford Reserve Chenin Blanc 2018 is an exemplary blend of terroir-driven minerality and vivacious acidity, garnering well-deserved recognition globally. A must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike, this Chenin Blanc is an embodiment of South Africa's passionate winemaking tradition. Don't miss the chance to savour this rare geolocation's quintessential expression.
Inc. VAT£457.61 -
Experience the sheer elegance of Charla Haasbroek Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, artfully crafted under the skilful hands of winemaker Charla Haasbroek. This artisanal wine is produced in the renowned Stellenbosch region of South Africa, famous for its optimal grape-growing conditions. Charla's meticulous winemaking approach, aligning traditional methods with innovative techniques, results in Cabernet Sauvignon of distinctive character.
The wine displays rich dark fruit aromatics, underscored by nuanced notes of leather and spice. On the palate, it reveals a robust structure with velvety tannins and a harmonious balance achieved through 18 months of French oak barrel maturation. The Charla Haasbroek Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 could be described as a modern classic: a wine that pays homage to its varietal heritage with a discernible expression of its unique terroir.
Ly celebrated for her dedication to crafting authentic wines that echo their origins, Charla Haasbroek's Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a sublime testament to her passion and expertise.
Inc. VAT£137.52 -
(1x75cl) 2021Tim Atkin MW (96)
Clay Shales is made with fruit purchased from a vineyard in the central part of the Hemelen-Aarde Ridge. Fermented with native yeasts in older wood, it's a nicely worked style with lots of layers and understated power, mixing flavours of oatmeal, toffee fudge and fresh citrus zing. Structured and intense.Inc. VAT£104.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (95)
Part of a brilliant line up of Pinot Noirs from Crystallum in 2020, this is a wine with evident tannin and extraction - more Nuits-St-Georges than Chambolle-Musigny perhaps - with plenty of grip, dark cherry and raspberry fruit, subtle 20% new wood and added complexity from 40% whole bunches.Inc. VAT£957.64 -
Tim Atkin MW (92)
Peter Max is Crystallum's entry-point Pinot Noir, as it were, combining components from the Overberg with 15% each from Elandskloof and the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Fermented with 10% whole clusters, it's an engagingly commercial style with white pepper and rose petal top notes and flavours of red cherry, plum and wild strawberry.Inc. VAT£329.52 -
Wine Advocate (93)
Crystallum's biggest Pinot Noir release is this 35,794-bottle production, with fruit sourced from across the Western Cape. The 2023 Peter Max Pinot Noir stands out for the same high quality found in the rest of this excellent portfolio. This is a spot-on wine made by Andrew and Peter-Allan Finlayson. With a total of 125 barrels created, it ages in mostly third- and fourth-year 228-liter barrels for 11 months. Wild cherry and violet cede to blood orange and spice.Inc. VAT£221.15 -
Vinous (92)
The 2017 Aristargos is a blend of several white varieties from 14 different vineyards that includes Marsanne for the first time. It is whole-bunch-pressed, with the Sémillon kept on its skins for a few days and then matured in 300-liter used barrels for 12 months. It has a vivacious bouquet of yellow plum, mirabelle and jasmine aromas, all wonderfully defined. The palate is well balanced with a waxy texture and notes of stone fruit, sesame, walnut and orange peel . A very subtle flor-like element lends tension on finish. Superb.Inc. VAT£210.80
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Vinous (93)
The 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Franschhoek, matured for 22 months in 80% new French barriques, has a fresh, marine-influenced bouquet that I feel has a little more complexity than the Stellenbosch. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, lightly spiced with black pepper and bay leaf, and very focused, leading to a bright and quite structured finish. This has more class and nuance than its Stellenbosch counterpart.In Bond£210.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
The nose on this outstanding wine reminds me of an elite Cabernet from another part of the world – Frankland River in Western Australia. There is more than a hint of ‘Houghton Jack Mann’ on the perfume and palate of this wine’s sensational 25th-anniversary release. Underpinning the profoundly deep black fruit notes is a sense of earthiness and energy that allows the blackberry and blackcurrant flavours to soar. With 70% new French oak on board, which has been folded away perfectly into the heart of this mighty wine, there is an extra dimension of flavour here thanks to the addition of a soupcon of Cabernet Franc. Only a handful of South African wines manage to capture this noble grape’s true essence while maintaining a compelling sense of stylishness. 2020 CSF does this in spades and it will continue to do so for two decades.In Bond£186.00 -
(6x75cl) 2009
Vinous (94)
The 2009 Semillon is feisty on the nose, with touches of lanolin and white pepper. Hints of beeswax surface with time. The palate has a beautiful texture and fine depth, waxy and very phenolic with a persistent finish. This is almost in the same class as the splendid 2006 and still has plenty in the tank.In Bond£239.00 -
Vinous (91)
The 2017 Sémillon, which has a 3% splash of Muscat of Alexandria, is made with an oxidative winemaking approach. It has a neutral nose, one where I would have liked more Sémillon character to poke through even at this early stage. The palate shows much more potential, presenting lovely lemon curd, toffee apple and white chocolate notes. The acidity is nicely judged, although that toffee note makes me wonder exactly how this will age. A second bottle showed less conspicuous toffee-ish notes and was much more in line with how I expect the wine to show. My score is based on this bottle.In Bond£96.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (99)
Boekenhoutskloof has always made impressive, age-worthy Semillons, but Gottfried Mocke has taken the 2020 to another level of complexity. Using grapes from three old parcels, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, with the largest component from the legendary La Colline vineyard, this includes 2% Muscat d'Alexandrie and some field blended Semillon Gris. Fermented in two thirds new wood, with the rest seeing concrete eggs and amphoras, it's one of the greatest ever Cape whites. Stony, flinty and layered, with wax, lemongrass and nutmeg flavours and subtle struck match reduction. Wow!In Bond£250.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Boekenhoutskloof's world-class Semillon uses grapes from three distinct blocks in Franschhoek, planted in 1902, 1936 and 1942, combining these with 3% Muscat d'Alexandrie. Showing more acidity and restraint than the stunning 2020, and less of the struck match character, it has notes of lemongrass, custard and beeswax and a core of chiselled acidity. Needs more time.In Bond£165.00 -
(6x75cl) 2022
Matthew Jukes (19)
This ancient vine Semillon (with its hints of blushing Muscat) has never looked more alluring. The expansive but slender chassis gives way to a brittle, teasing finish, and the floral, silver needle, and jasmine notes are overwhelmingly rhythmic and hypnotic. 2022 Boek Sem experience is like no other Semillon on earth.In Bond£170.00 -
Matthew Jukes (18.5+)
Plush and packed with cassis, this is a tremendously flashy wine with deep wells of liqueur-like fruit coupled with strident oak and a lovely bright, dry finish. Yearning to be set free, BCSS is like a prize-fighter itching for the bell so it can launch itself at its opponent. This is an amazing Cabernet and while it has the stuffing to go deep into the later rounds, I love its toned flanks and glistening musculature right now.In Bond£202.00 -
Platter's South African Wine Guide (97)
(Cabernet Sauvignon of the Year) Power & precision combine in stellar 2019. Ripe black cherry fruit with lifted perfume notes (dab of cab franc, as Franschhoek sibling), fine integrated tannins & fresh, lithe appeal. 75% new French oak adds to muscular richness completing a very fine wine. 5 parcels in Helderberg, Polkadraai & Faure.In Bond£165.00 -
(1x75cl) 2010
Renowned for meticulous craftsmanship, the Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010 originates from select vineyards of the Franschhoek Valley, South Africa. The family-owned Boekenhoutskloof winery, famously committed to sustainable viticulture, has nurtured this exceptional Syrah with great care since 1776. Precisely curated using traditional techniques, each grape is manually destemmed, ensuring an utmost expression of terroir.
Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010 gently matures for 26 months in fine-grained French oak before bottling. The resulting wine exhibits luscious layers of blackberries, spices, and violets, underscored by an intricate and powerful minerality. On the palate, a symphony of complex flavours unfolds, revealing firm, yet refined tannins and a profound depth that promise excellent ageing potential.
This South African gem, often compared favourably with leading French Syrah, elegantly captures the robust elegance of the New World varietals. The Boekenhoutskloof Syrah 2010, a masterful testament to characterful wine, is a must-have for the discerning connoisseur.
In Bond£90.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
I have never forgotten the 2000 vintage of this wine, which I wrote up in one of my books many moons ago. In the blink of an eye, the perfume on this 2018 vintage took me back to that great wine and while this label has been known to wander off into the forest in certain vintages, it is back with a brooding bang and loaded with Hermitage-like malevolence in 2018. With a melange of both red and black fruit tones and considerable aromatic lift on the nose, this is a Syrah with its feet firmly planted in the earth while its head is in the clouds such is the scale and majesty of its posture. Like the other reds in this vintage, the oak integration is near perfect and this allows the fruit to sing. If there is one wine to drink before the other reds, then this is it, and while it might be a criminal offence to drink this wine so young, I am sure you will break the law for a flavour as enthralling and all-encompassing as this one.In Bond£143.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
The wine that launched the modern Syrah revolution in South Africa, even if it's sourced from two sites in the Swartland these days, rather than Somerset West. Almost indecently perfumed and alluring, this is a very immediate wine that will also reward cellaring. Sweet spices, red berry fruit, fine, savoury tannins and just a hint of oak with energetic acidity. 2023-31In Bond£160.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
With 90% of the fruit coming from Porseleinberg and 10% from Goldmine, both in Swartland, this is a wondrous wine with more detail and finesse than any preceding vintage. Utilising only large foudre, the spice and fruit aromatics are as pure and evocative as I have encountered in a Cape Syrah. While the flavour palette is more deep purple than black-fruited, there is no obvious oak intervention and this allows the fruit to soar. Sanguineous and sappy on the finish, this is a glorious red wine with elemental animal notes interwoven with silky ribbons of beautifully ripe blackcurrant, mulberry and plum flavours. With the same texture and volume of fruit as a Vosne-Romanée, this is a regal creation that distances itself from the meat and muscle often found in sun-loving Syrahs!In Bond£155.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (97)
Given that 90% of its raw material comes from Porseleinberg - the other 10% comes from Boekenhoutskloof's Roundstone property - it's no surprise that this is such an impressive Syrah. Fermented with 65% whole bunches, it combines fynbos, lavender and Asian spice aromas with a palate of white pepper, barbecued meat, oregano and blackberry framed by sappy, granular tannins. World class.In Bond£165.00 -
Matthew Jukes (19+)
With a thrilling perfume that resembles a lusty Morey-Saint-Denis more than a hulking Cornas, this sensual, pliable Syrah has embraced the multifaceted vintage conditions, unveiling an uncommonly prescient and enthralling wine. Totally integrated tannins beneath a shimmering, black-fruited carapace of flesh and spice, this is a genial fellow and the most approachable and civilised Swartland creation in a decade.In Bond£209.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (98)
I’m making this for Syrah fanatics”, says Reenen Borman. Lucky them is all I can say, because this is another stunning release from a brilliant young winemaker. Intense, granitic and spicy, with lovely lavender and garrigue aromas, layers of dark, inky fruit, stylish oak and amazing length. What more do you want from a Syrah? 2020-30In Bond£328.00 -
(1x75cl) 2017In Bond£107.00
-
In Bond£340.00
-
(1x75cl) 2018
Vinous (94)
The 2018 Epilogue Syrah, which is 30% whole bunch fermented and matured for 13 months in 20% new 400-litre oak barrels, has an outstanding, very well defined bouquet with pure black cherries, boysenberry, iodine and violet aromas that are very expressive. The palate is medium-bodied with supple tannins, a little gamey in style, touches of fennel and white pepper, leading to a caressing, velvety finish very classy.In Bond£68.00 -
The benchmark cuvée from the exceptionally talented Reenen Borman, at the helm of this mythical estate since 2010 - this wine is spoken about in hushed tones amongst experts, critics.
50% whole-bunch fermentation has given the wine monolithic structure, without a single brick out of place. 25% of the wine was raised in 400 litre oak barrels, imparting gentle seasoning and further fine tannins, whilst the remaining 75% was raised in concrete eggs, preserving the fruit's sensational freshness and impossible purity.
Naturally, this wine is infantile due to its quality and structure, but already it displays a mesmeric mélange of violets, dried flowers, herbs and spices on the nose. Positively quivering with energy at this stage, the wine’s acidity shoots like Artemis’ arrow across the palate, losing no momentum through the endless finish. It is hard to overstate the juddering quality of Epilogue – Tim Atkin MW said of the 2017 that it was “now established as one of the Cape’s great Syrahs”... It is now one of the world’s greatest wines.In Bond£300.00 -
IWSC (97)
Very classy wine with nicely judged oak that adds vanilla spice to the tropical fruit and toffee apple flavours. Perfectly poised with crisp acidity and an elegant, long finish.In Bond£173.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
True to its terroir, the Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 merits a noteworthy place in the collection of seasoned oenophiles. This Syrah is lovingly produced in the cool climate of the Walker Bay region, South Africa — a veritable paradise for viticulture. The winemaker, Brunia Wines, an uncompromising artisan renowned for championing sustainability through minimal intervention, imbues this vintage with authentic character.
The Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 skillfully balances bold, aromatic side with elegant, juicy fruit flavours. The deliberate use of whole-bunch fermentation generates pronounced savoury facets, accented by supple tannins and a gratifying length. A slumber of 10 months on French Oak provides a mellowed sophistication, making this wine a testament to Brunia's commitment to harness the very best of the grape.
Mature yet vibrant, layered yet fine-tuned, Brunia Syrah Walker Bay 2018 is an assertive addition to any discerning wine enthusiast's collection, encapsulating the essence of South Africa's stellar wine craftsmanship.
In Bond£125.00 -
(6x75cl) 2018
Admire the exquisite character of the Brunia White Walker Bay 2018. Produced in the cool-climate region of Walker Bay, South Africa, this formidable wine is an example of exceptional winemaking. The Brunia family's passion and heritage run deep in each bottle. Their dedication to sustainable farming and minimal intervention winemaking has resulted in an authentic wine of superior quality.
The 2018 vintage flaunts a remarkable golden hue, hinting at the complexity within. It’s a harmonious blend of Chenin Blanc and Viognier, encouraging a superb balance of acidity and opulent fruit flavours. Notes of ripe pear, honeyed apricot, and clean minerality reward the palate, whilst a crème brûlée finish hints at the delicate oak maturation.
To enjoy the Brunia White Walker Bay 2018 to its full potential, allow it to breathe before serving it modestly chilled. Whether experienced as an aperitif or with a meal, this wine is a delightful companion to your culinary journey.
In Bond£125.00 -
Characterised by undying refinement and complexity, the Cape Winemakers Guild De Trafford Reserve Chenin Blanc 2018 is a sterling exhibit of South African artistry. Landed from the sun-drenched vineyards of Stellenbosch, this wine is a creation of acclaimed winemaker David De Trafford. Reserved for the best harvests, the grapes undergo careful selection, ageing on lees for eleven months, imparting this wine with an optimised body and structure.
Each sip unveils a symphony of ripe peach, delicate pineapple, piquant ginger and nuanced nutty undertones, making this full-bodied wine an ambassador of elegance. The Cape Winemakers Guild De Trafford Reserve Chenin Blanc 2018 is an exemplary blend of terroir-driven minerality and vivacious acidity, garnering well-deserved recognition globally. A must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike, this Chenin Blanc is an embodiment of South Africa's passionate winemaking tradition. Don't miss the chance to savour this rare geolocation's quintessential expression.
In Bond£340.00 -
Experience the sheer elegance of Charla Haasbroek Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, artfully crafted under the skilful hands of winemaker Charla Haasbroek. This artisanal wine is produced in the renowned Stellenbosch region of South Africa, famous for its optimal grape-growing conditions. Charla's meticulous winemaking approach, aligning traditional methods with innovative techniques, results in Cabernet Sauvignon of distinctive character.
The wine displays rich dark fruit aromatics, underscored by nuanced notes of leather and spice. On the palate, it reveals a robust structure with velvety tannins and a harmonious balance achieved through 18 months of French oak barrel maturation. The Charla Haasbroek Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 could be described as a modern classic: a wine that pays homage to its varietal heritage with a discernible expression of its unique terroir.
Ly celebrated for her dedication to crafting authentic wines that echo their origins, Charla Haasbroek's Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 is a sublime testament to her passion and expertise.
In Bond£96.00 -
(1x75cl) 2021
Tim Atkin MW (96)
Clay Shales is made with fruit purchased from a vineyard in the central part of the Hemelen-Aarde Ridge. Fermented with native yeasts in older wood, it's a nicely worked style with lots of layers and understated power, mixing flavours of oatmeal, toffee fudge and fresh citrus zing. Structured and intense.In Bond£84.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (95)
Part of a brilliant line up of Pinot Noirs from Crystallum in 2020, this is a wine with evident tannin and extraction - more Nuits-St-Georges than Chambolle-Musigny perhaps - with plenty of grip, dark cherry and raspberry fruit, subtle 20% new wood and added complexity from 40% whole bunches.In Bond£782.00 -
Tim Atkin MW (92)
Peter Max is Crystallum's entry-point Pinot Noir, as it were, combining components from the Overberg with 15% each from Elandskloof and the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Fermented with 10% whole clusters, it's an engagingly commercial style with white pepper and rose petal top notes and flavours of red cherry, plum and wild strawberry.In Bond£256.00 -
Wine Advocate (93)
Crystallum's biggest Pinot Noir release is this 35,794-bottle production, with fruit sourced from across the Western Cape. The 2023 Peter Max Pinot Noir stands out for the same high quality found in the rest of this excellent portfolio. This is a spot-on wine made by Andrew and Peter-Allan Finlayson. With a total of 125 barrels created, it ages in mostly third- and fourth-year 228-liter barrels for 11 months. Wild cherry and violet cede to blood orange and spice.In Bond£165.00 -
Vinous (92)
The 2017 Aristargos is a blend of several white varieties from 14 different vineyards that includes Marsanne for the first time. It is whole-bunch-pressed, with the Sémillon kept on its skins for a few days and then matured in 300-liter used barrels for 12 months. It has a vivacious bouquet of yellow plum, mirabelle and jasmine aromas, all wonderfully defined. The palate is well balanced with a waxy texture and notes of stone fruit, sesame, walnut and orange peel . A very subtle flor-like element lends tension on finish. Superb.In Bond£155.00
