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.
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South Africa
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Western Cape | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£88.13 |
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Saurwein’s Om Pinot Noir, Western Cape 2023, epitomises the pinnacle of South African viticulture. Grown in the esteemed vineyards of the Western Cape, this Pinot Noir benefits from the region’s cool maritime climate and well-drained soils, allowing for optimal ripening and expression of varietal character. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine’s delicate aromas and vibrant acidity. A subtle ageing process in French oak barrels imparts nuanced complexity without overpowering the fruit’s purity. The 2023 vintage showcases a rich tapestry of red berries, cherries, and subtle earthy undertones, culminating in a silky smooth palate and a lingering finish. Saurwein, renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices and unwavering quality, delivers a Pinot Noir that is both elegant and expressive, perfect for discerning connoisseurs seeking a refined wine experience. |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 95 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£200.29 |
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Tim Atkin MW (95)The last two hectares of dry-farmed Syrah on the Helderberg, planted by Bernhard Bredell's grandfather in 1995, were pulled out in 2017, so this Swanesang comes from a new source on the mountain. Rich, dense and Cornas-like, it's another remarkable Syrah from this talented young winemaker, with pepper spice and grip from 30% whole bunches and meaty, stony complexity. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (VN) |
Inc. VAT
£203.60 |
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Vinous (95)The 2019 Swanesang comes from a 0.8-hectare parcel on decomposed granite soils planted in 1999. Here, vines are usually bush vines, but Bredell has trained them to grow upright. Blended with 60% stems, there is just a slight reduction on the nose, though with aeration it reveals enticing brambly red fruit, sous-bois, fennel and white pepper scents. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost pastille-like purity on the entry that belies the structure and backbone. Mainly red fruit here, white pepper and sage, it has impressive precision and freshness on the Rhône-inspired finish. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£471.25 |
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Cape South Coast | 4 | 90 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£465.10 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (90)Showing its age with tarry spice and dark fruit tones, the Sijnn 2015 Malgas Red reflects an earlier chapter in the estate’s evolution. The blend of Syrah, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Mourvèdre does not include Grenache, and after a decade in bottle, the wine presents a more evolved and weightier profile with deeper, darker edges. There is richness and maturity here, with tertiary notes emerging and tannins softening into a broader frame. This vintage predates the stylistic refinement seen in more recent releases, marking a clear step forward in subsequent years. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 90 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£104.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (90)Showing its age with tarry spice and dark fruit tones, the Sijnn 2015 Malgas Red reflects an earlier chapter in the estate’s evolution. The blend of Syrah, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Mourvèdre does not include Grenache, and after a decade in bottle, the wine presents a more evolved and weightier profile with deeper, darker edges. There is richness and maturity here, with tertiary notes emerging and tannins softening into a broader frame. This vintage predates the stylistic refinement seen in more recent releases, marking a clear step forward in subsequent years. |
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Cape South Coast | 4 | 96 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£216.35 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)Sijnn is one of the most amazing new terroirs in the Cape, producing wines of remarkable individuality. This Rhône meets Bordeaux meets the Douro Valley blend, made with grapes grown just 15 kilometres from the sea, is stony, complex and intensely aromatic, showing lavender and wild thyme avours, grippy tannins and layered, mineral intense fruit. Superb stuff . 2021-35 |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 96 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£231.49 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (96)One of the most beautiful and complex terroirs in South Africa supplies the grapes for this unique red, produced from a medley of Shiraz with 33% Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional and the very rare (in South Africa) Tinta Amarella. Inky, savoury and wild, it has freshness and concentration, notes of rosemary and lavender, meaty depths and fine oak. 2023-30 |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£464.64 |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 90 (WS) |
Inc. VAT
£238.32 |
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Wine Spectator (90)Lovely almond and hazelnut notes lead the way, with lemon curd, verbena, heather and lightly toasted piecrust and ginger notes gliding through the finish. Slightly languid in feel, but shows good range. Chenin Blanc and Viognier. |
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Cape South Coast | 9 | - |
Inc. VAT
£239.15 |
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Cape South Coast | 4 | 93 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£392.64 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (93)More conventional than the Sijnn red, this is a three-way blend of Chenin Blanc, Viognier and Roussanne that sees a little skin contact before fermentation. Honeysuckle, fresh herb and citrus flavours reminded me of the Rhône Valley. |
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Cape South Coast | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£469.61 |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£469.61 |
|||||
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Cape South Coast | 6 | - |
Inc. VAT
£173.98 |
|||||
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1 | - |
Inc. VAT
£458.00 |
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Cape South Coast | 10 | 96 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£272.00 |
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Tim Atkin MW (96)As its name suggests, Ignis uses grapes from a 2.4-hectare, north-facing site on warmer decomposed granite soils. Pale, ethereal and very delicate for a 2022 red, it combines the Burgundian 113 and 115 clones to brilliant effect. Focused, energetic and tangy, with savoury tannins, pomegranate and wild strawberry flavours, nuanced and a real sense of energy, vibrancy and purpose. Incredibly long. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£255.49 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (94)Hannes Storm's whites have shifted up a gear in 2022 and are fast approaching the same level as his lauded Pinot Noirs. This stylish Chardonnay showcases grapes from a south-east facing parcel at 330 metres on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Fermented in a combination of 32% new barrels and 10% clay amphoras, it's a chiselled, pithy, focused white with lots of zip, lemongrass and orange zest flavours and subtle aromatic spices. |
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Cape South Coast | 2 | - |
Inc. VAT
£272.00 |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£259.24 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (94)The Vrede Chardonnay uses grapes from the same site in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley as the Pinot Noir of the same name. Made with the popular CY95 clone, this shows none of the heat of the 2022 vintage, reflecting the subtlety of Hannes Storm's winemaking. Sappy, mineral and refreshing, it combines scented 25% new oak with citrus, oatmeal and pear flavours and a lingering finish. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 95+ (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£272.00 |
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Wine Advocate (95+)The Storm 2023 Hemel-En-Aarde Valley Chardonnay Vrede comes from a site a mere 1.3 kilometers from the cool Atlantic Ocean. "This is a big wine in a small package," says winemaker and proprietor Hannes Storm. It reveals tight phenolic grip and a richer style with citrus marmalade and yellow orchard fruits. You practically taste salt crystals on thickened grape skins. It offers terrific length thanks to that extra structure, finishes dry and closes with flinty mineral sensations. The 2023 vintage was rainy. Hannes Storm harvested on a Friday, and a heavy storm the next day dropped five inches of rain, causing flooding and visible erosion in the surrounding mountains. |
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Cape South Coast | 1 | 97 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£269.52 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (97)Now including 20% of the 777 clone, alongside its habitual 115 base, Vrede comes from red clay soils with a high iron component. Seductively perfumed, this stunning red has fine tannins, fleshy, opulent flavours of strawberry and redcurrant, finely judged 35% new wood and undertones of rose petal and forest floor. One of the greatest ever Cape Pinot Noirs. |
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Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£184.32 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (97)Very few recent South African releases have been as eagerly awaited as this 2018 red from the old Cordoba property on the flank of the Helderberg. And it doesn't disappoint in the slightest. Cabernet Franc-centred, with 24% Merlot and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, the new crescendo is a beautifully refined, detailed red from 21-year-old vines. Violet and cut grass aromas lead into a palate that is fresh, bright and comparatively low in alcohol with filigree tannins, subtle wood, fine tension and the focus and balance to age. What a début! |
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Coastal Region | 4 | 98 (TA) |
Inc. VAT
£171.12 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (98)Could Schalk-Willem Joubert do it again in 2019 after such an impressive maiden release? You bet he could and he has even improved on that predecessor. This is more precise and nuanced, presenting a seamless assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 26% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon from the windy western corner of the Helderberg. Complex, layered and restrained, with perfumed 35% new wood, graphite, red berry, blackcurrant leaf and tarragon flavours and fresh, sea breeze-kissed finish. |
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| Product Name | Region | Qty | Score | Price | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Western Cape | 1 | - |
In Bond
£70.00 |
|||||
|
Saurwein’s Om Pinot Noir, Western Cape 2023, epitomises the pinnacle of South African viticulture. Grown in the esteemed vineyards of the Western Cape, this Pinot Noir benefits from the region’s cool maritime climate and well-drained soils, allowing for optimal ripening and expression of varietal character. Hand-harvested grapes undergo meticulous fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks, preserving the wine’s delicate aromas and vibrant acidity. A subtle ageing process in French oak barrels imparts nuanced complexity without overpowering the fruit’s purity. The 2023 vintage showcases a rich tapestry of red berries, cherries, and subtle earthy undertones, culminating in a silky smooth palate and a lingering finish. Saurwein, renowned for their commitment to sustainable practices and unwavering quality, delivers a Pinot Noir that is both elegant and expressive, perfect for discerning connoisseurs seeking a refined wine experience. |
|||||||||
|
|
Coastal Region | 4 | 95 (TA) |
In Bond
£149.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (95)The last two hectares of dry-farmed Syrah on the Helderberg, planted by Bernhard Bredell's grandfather in 1995, were pulled out in 2017, so this Swanesang comes from a new source on the mountain. Rich, dense and Cornas-like, it's another remarkable Syrah from this talented young winemaker, with pepper spice and grip from 30% whole bunches and meaty, stony complexity. |
|||||||||
|
|
Coastal Region | 1 | 95 (VN) |
In Bond
£149.00 |
|||||
Vinous (95)The 2019 Swanesang comes from a 0.8-hectare parcel on decomposed granite soils planted in 1999. Here, vines are usually bush vines, but Bredell has trained them to grow upright. Blended with 60% stems, there is just a slight reduction on the nose, though with aeration it reveals enticing brambly red fruit, sous-bois, fennel and white pepper scents. The palate is medium-bodied with an almost pastille-like purity on the entry that belies the structure and backbone. Mainly red fruit here, white pepper and sage, it has impressive precision and freshness on the Rhône-inspired finish. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
In Bond
£350.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 4 | 90 (WA) |
In Bond
£349.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (90)Showing its age with tarry spice and dark fruit tones, the Sijnn 2015 Malgas Red reflects an earlier chapter in the estate’s evolution. The blend of Syrah, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Mourvèdre does not include Grenache, and after a decade in bottle, the wine presents a more evolved and weightier profile with deeper, darker edges. There is richness and maturity here, with tertiary notes emerging and tannins softening into a broader frame. This vintage predates the stylistic refinement seen in more recent releases, marking a clear step forward in subsequent years. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 90 (WA) |
Inc. VAT
£100.80 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (90)Showing its age with tarry spice and dark fruit tones, the Sijnn 2015 Malgas Red reflects an earlier chapter in the estate’s evolution. The blend of Syrah, Tinta Amarela, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan and Mourvèdre does not include Grenache, and after a decade in bottle, the wine presents a more evolved and weightier profile with deeper, darker edges. There is richness and maturity here, with tertiary notes emerging and tannins softening into a broader frame. This vintage predates the stylistic refinement seen in more recent releases, marking a clear step forward in subsequent years. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 4 | 96 (TA) |
In Bond
£161.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (96)Sijnn is one of the most amazing new terroirs in the Cape, producing wines of remarkable individuality. This Rhône meets Bordeaux meets the Douro Valley blend, made with grapes grown just 15 kilometres from the sea, is stony, complex and intensely aromatic, showing lavender and wild thyme avours, grippy tannins and layered, mineral intense fruit. Superb stuff . 2021-35 |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 96 (TA) |
In Bond
£175.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (96)One of the most beautiful and complex terroirs in South Africa supplies the grapes for this unique red, produced from a medley of Shiraz with 33% Mourvèdre, Touriga Nacional and the very rare (in South Africa) Tinta Amarella. Inky, savoury and wild, it has freshness and concentration, notes of rosemary and lavender, meaty depths and fine oak. 2023-30 |
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|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
In Bond
£350.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 90 (WS) |
In Bond
£180.00 |
|||||
Wine Spectator (90)Lovely almond and hazelnut notes lead the way, with lemon curd, verbena, heather and lightly toasted piecrust and ginger notes gliding through the finish. Slightly languid in feel, but shows good range. Chenin Blanc and Viognier. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 9 | - |
In Bond
£180.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 4 | 93 (TA) |
In Bond
£290.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (93)More conventional than the Sijnn red, this is a three-way blend of Chenin Blanc, Viognier and Roussanne that sees a little skin contact before fermentation. Honeysuckle, fresh herb and citrus flavours reminded me of the Rhône Valley. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 2 | - |
In Bond
£350.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | - |
In Bond
£350.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 6 | - |
In Bond
£125.00 |
|||||
|
|
1 | - |
In Bond
£361.00 |
||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 10 | 96 (TA) |
In Bond
£206.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (96)As its name suggests, Ignis uses grapes from a 2.4-hectare, north-facing site on warmer decomposed granite soils. Pale, ethereal and very delicate for a 2022 red, it combines the Burgundian 113 and 115 clones to brilliant effect. Focused, energetic and tangy, with savoury tannins, pomegranate and wild strawberry flavours, nuanced and a real sense of energy, vibrancy and purpose. Incredibly long. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (TA) |
In Bond
£195.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (94)Hannes Storm's whites have shifted up a gear in 2022 and are fast approaching the same level as his lauded Pinot Noirs. This stylish Chardonnay showcases grapes from a south-east facing parcel at 330 metres on the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. Fermented in a combination of 32% new barrels and 10% clay amphoras, it's a chiselled, pithy, focused white with lots of zip, lemongrass and orange zest flavours and subtle aromatic spices. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 2 | - |
In Bond
£206.00 |
|||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 94 (TA) |
In Bond
£200.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (94)The Vrede Chardonnay uses grapes from the same site in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley as the Pinot Noir of the same name. Made with the popular CY95 clone, this shows none of the heat of the 2022 vintage, reflecting the subtlety of Hannes Storm's winemaking. Sappy, mineral and refreshing, it combines scented 25% new oak with citrus, oatmeal and pear flavours and a lingering finish. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 95+ (WA) |
In Bond
£206.00 |
|||||
Wine Advocate (95+)The Storm 2023 Hemel-En-Aarde Valley Chardonnay Vrede comes from a site a mere 1.3 kilometers from the cool Atlantic Ocean. "This is a big wine in a small package," says winemaker and proprietor Hannes Storm. It reveals tight phenolic grip and a richer style with citrus marmalade and yellow orchard fruits. You practically taste salt crystals on thickened grape skins. It offers terrific length thanks to that extra structure, finishes dry and closes with flinty mineral sensations. The 2023 vintage was rainy. Hannes Storm harvested on a Friday, and a heavy storm the next day dropped five inches of rain, causing flooding and visible erosion in the surrounding mountains. |
|||||||||
|
|
Cape South Coast | 1 | 97 (TA) |
In Bond
£206.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (97)Now including 20% of the 777 clone, alongside its habitual 115 base, Vrede comes from red clay soils with a high iron component. Seductively perfumed, this stunning red has fine tannins, fleshy, opulent flavours of strawberry and redcurrant, finely judged 35% new wood and undertones of rose petal and forest floor. One of the greatest ever Cape Pinot Noirs. |
|||||||||
|
|
Coastal Region | 1 | 97 (TA) |
In Bond
£135.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (97)Very few recent South African releases have been as eagerly awaited as this 2018 red from the old Cordoba property on the flank of the Helderberg. And it doesn't disappoint in the slightest. Cabernet Franc-centred, with 24% Merlot and 16% Cabernet Sauvignon, the new crescendo is a beautifully refined, detailed red from 21-year-old vines. Violet and cut grass aromas lead into a palate that is fresh, bright and comparatively low in alcohol with filigree tannins, subtle wood, fine tension and the focus and balance to age. What a début! |
|||||||||
|
|
Coastal Region | 4 | 98 (TA) |
In Bond
£124.00 |
|||||
Tim Atkin MW (98)Could Schalk-Willem Joubert do it again in 2019 after such an impressive maiden release? You bet he could and he has even improved on that predecessor. This is more precise and nuanced, presenting a seamless assemblage of Cabernet Franc with 26% Merlot and 9% Cabernet Sauvignon from the windy western corner of the Helderberg. Complex, layered and restrained, with perfumed 35% new wood, graphite, red berry, blackcurrant leaf and tarragon flavours and fresh, sea breeze-kissed finish. |
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