There were plenty of winners for Seckfords producers in this years 3 main International competitions: Decanter World Wine Awards; International Wine Challenge and International Wine & Spirit Competition.
The following high scoring wines are all now (June 2025) available to purchase from Seckford, with more winning vintages coming on line throughout the year.
Our producers have been scooping up awards at the 2025 IWC & IWSC.
Top of the class this year are:
International Wine Challenge (IWC)
TROPHIES
Vergelegen Estate White blend 2023: IWC South African White Trophy
Vergelegen Estate White Blend 2023: IWC Stellenbosch Semillon/Sauvignon Blanc Trophy
GOLD MEDALS
95 pts Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2021 *
Beautiful nose with tons of sour cherry, dried herbs, red plums and thyme. Juicy fruits, herbal and floral aromas. ripe yet structured tannins with elegant refined palate, long fine finish packed with all the flavour complexity.
95 pts Trentham Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 *
Black plum, cherry, lots of structured tannins. Concentrated cassis, blackberry flavours. This is bold, ripe and structured with great depth to the finish.
96 pts Vergelegen Estate White 2023 *
A very aromatic wine with waxy hay sheds, greengage and gooseberry; tangy, zesty in the mouth with tense but juicy freshness and a long, elegant mineral inflected finish.
95 pts Vergelegen Reserve Chardonnay 2023 *
Really classy stuff, appetizing savouriness of toasted hazlenut is alluringly partnered by white peach and white apple flesh and just a touch of apple skin chewiness.
95 pts Golden Amrita Single Estate 2022
Crushed black plus, black cherries and dark chocolate. Juicy, fresh acidity and balanced alcohol, all swaddled in spicy oak.
95 pts Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend 2023
Beautiful elegant freshness packed with red currant and black berry fruit compote and a delicious refreshing palate. Full of energy and poise with a clean finish.
International Wine & Sprit Competition (IWSC)
GOLD MEDAL
96 pts Golden Amrita Lumenval Moppa Shiraz 2020
Inviting aromas of smoked meat and thyme lead into a full-bodied experience, bursting with savoury red spice and anise. The palate reveals layered fruit and intriguing umami notes, culminating in a long, tamponade finish with a touch of saline elegance.
More to come, watch this space……
Raise an alcohol-free toast to Darling Cellars success
Darling Cellars popular range of De-Alcoholised range earned well-deserved recognition at this year’s World Alcohol-Free Awards – proving once again that you don’t need the alcohol to bring great flavour to the party!
*Silver Medal Winners*
*DC De-Alcoholised Sparkling Rosé – Pale rose gold sparkle, bursting with strawberries, raspberries & redcurrant. Fun, fresh and fabulously balanced!
*DC De-Alcoholised Shiraz – Bold blackberry & black cherry, smoky undertones and a smooth finish with a touch of tannin. A rich red with West Coast soul.
*Commended*
*DC De-Alcoholised Sauvignon Blanc – Ripe pineapple & cooked fruit notes meet a soft, sweet palate. An easy-drinking crowd-pleaser.
Crafted from Bush Vines from the Cool West Coast, these award-winning de-alcoholised wines offer all the taste and none of the compromise.
Visit Darling Cellars page to find out more information
Kanonkop Estate has once again been named one of the 50 Most Admired Wine Brands in the World in the annual poll done by leading wine publication Drinks International which every year selects its 50 top brands throughout the winemaking diaspora. Kanonkop took 24th spot on this year’s illustrious top 50 list, and was also named as best brand in all of Africa and the Middle East.
This year sees the 15th edition of the international wine industry’s most authoritative ranking as voted on by Drinks International’s Academy extensive panel of 100 independent experts from around the world including sommeliers, buyers, wholesalers, Masters of Wine and wine writers. This is the fifth time Kanonkop has appeared on this coveted list.
Johann Krige, co-owner of Kanonkop, says this recognition is both an honour and a privilege. “The honour is in being recognised for our wine quality and the status of the Kanonkop brand by a panel of experts who had to make a selection from the best wineries spread throughout the great wine countries such as France, Italy, Spain, America and Australia,” he says.
“The privilege is seeing your own brand on the Top 50 list alongside international icons such as Chateau Margaux and Domaine de la Romanée Conti from France, the Spain legends of Vega Sicilia and Torres and Penfold’s from Australia.
This Top 50 recognition comes two years after Kanonkop celebrated its 50th anniversary as a wine brand, its first bottlings – Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinotage – being from the 1973 vintage. In its half-century as arguably South Africa’s leading wine brand, Kanonkop has received various international accolades, including four times winning the trophy for Best Winemaker in the World at the International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Krige says that focus and a realisation of the importance of sticking to basic viticulture and winemaking principles have been the keys to Kanonkop’s success. “Our Simonsberg terroir provides the canvas and lies at the heart of everything we do,” he says. “An exclusive focus on red varieties that have proven themselves as being best-suited to our terroir, together with precision viticulture, allows us to make the best use of the site we have been given. And in the cellar Kanonkop remains committed to traditional winemaking methods of fermenting grapes in open-top concrete tanks, with manual punch-downs. No expense is spared in ensuring the wines are matured in the finest wood, and despite our track-record of successes, every day is spent thinking about how Kanonkop can still improve on quality.”
Krige says Kanonkop has never chased recognition, awards or spots on the lists of top global wineries. “These have come our way, I believe, because throughout our history we have never waivered from this commitment to excellence, as well as remaining true to the heritage and values of Kanonkop’s wine ethos.”
Krige emphasises the fact that to be recognised as a Top 50 Most Admired Brand a winery’s relationships with its global distributors, agents and customers is key. “Kanonkop exports its wines to over 70 countries around the world, and the recognition we have been fortunate to receive must also be attributed to the quality of the business and personal relationships we have built-up with our international client base,” says Krige. “It is about telling the story behind your wine, allowing your customers an inside glimpse into the terroir of your soul and proudly sharing your very being as a wine brand with them. This authenticity behind our brand has played as much a success in the Kanonkop story as the very unique sense of place our wines offer,”
As reported by CEO Francisco Grohnert, Kalfu are delighted to have been recognised as “Winery of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast.
“This honour reflects the passion, dedication, and quality that define our winery, and we couldn’t be more grateful for this recognition. We are filled with joy and pride to share with you that we have been named “New World Winery of the Year” by the prestigious U.S. publication Wine Enthusiast. This recognition reflects the hard work, dedication, and passion we pour into every bottle of wine we craft.
The #WineStarAwards, presented since the year 2000, honour winemakers, companies, and wineries across various categories for their significant contributions to the wine world, making a lasting impact on the industry and consumers alike.
Thank you, @wineenthusiast, for this incredible honour, and thank you to all of you for choosing our wines”
Some excellent results from down under at Trentham Estate:
2024 Perth Royal Wine Awards
GOLD – 2021 Reserve Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon
Silver – 2022 Estate Grown Merlot
2024 Sydney Royal Wine Show
GOLD – 2022 Estate Grown Merlot (95 points)
2024 National Wine Show of Australia
Silver – 2022 Estate Grown Merlot (90 points)
Silver – 2021 Reserve Coonawarra Cabernet Sauvignon (90 points)
In the Sunday Times, Will Lyons had this to say of the 2021 Kalfu Molu Chardonnay
“There’s tropical fruit and lime zest in this topical white, with oak and nutty intensity
Neal Martin’s article on the Vinous website; South Africa: Where are we now is well worth a read
and below are a few of his high scoring wines from the Seckford portfolio that are currently available:
2021 Kaapzicht Cabernet Sauvignon Steytler Vision 92 points
The 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Steytler Vision has a mixture of red and black fruit on the nose, with melted tar and a touch of wild mint coming through with time. The palate is medium-bodied with a slightly viscous texture, counterbalanced by a keen line of acidity. Lightly peppered, harmonious and quite fresh on the finish, this shows impressive delineation. It will mature beautifully in bottle. Drinking Window: 2027 – 2045
2021 Kanonkop Pinotage Black Label 92 points
The 2021 Pinotage Black Label has a concentrated bouquet, if perhaps not quite as much as the previous vintage, with a light reduction at play. Scents of potpourri and camphor interlace the black plummy fruit. The palate is ripe and lush on the entry, and the 100% new oak is, as usual, very well integrated. Allspice, a touch of black pepper and clove develop toward the long finish. Of course, it will require several years in bottle, but it remains one of the Cape’s finest Pinotages. Drinking Window: 2029 – 2044
2021 Kanonkop Pinotage Estate 91 points
The 2021 Pinotage Estate has a very slight reduction on the nose that accents mentholated black cherries—well defined and exuberant. The palate is medium-bodied with a supple opening and lovely structure. White pepper and a touch of clove meet with just the right amount of fruit sweetness on the finish, closing with a suggestion of graphite. Drinking Window: 2024 – 2036
2014 Kanonkop Pinotage Estate 90 points
I tasted the 2014 Pinotage Estate because Kanonkop has an active program of releasing ten-year-old vintage to restaurants. It actually has quite a youthful bouquet: a mixture of red and black fruit, camphor, a touch of crushed violets and then a smudge of marmalade. The palate is medium-bodied with pliant tannins, quite fleshy and erring toward a medicinal style of Pinotage. A touch of white pepper builds on the finish. This is drinking beautifully now. Drinking Window: 2024 – 2034
2023 Rustenberg Chardonnay Five Soldiers 92 points
The 2023 Chardonnay Five Soldiers comes from two clones within a single vineyard at roughly 400 meters above sea level on a wind-exposed site. It was whole-bunch-pressed, barrel-fermented and aged for 15 months in 65-70% new French oak (the staves here are bent by water rather than over fire, thus imparting less wood tannin.) It has a cool, quite aloof bouquet at first, demanding coaxing. Citrus peel, orchard fruit and light orange blossom scents emerge with time. The palate is well balanced with crisp acidity and fine concentration, not amazingly complex per se, yet it has a delightful finish of Clementine and peach. You could drink this now, but it will keep for a decade. Drinking Window: 2024 – 2034
2022 DeMorgenzon Chenin Blanc Reserve 93 points
The 2022 Chenin Blanc Reserve comes mainly from the estate’s heritage blocks, now partly aged in amphora. It has just a touch of reduction at the moment and is a little waxy in style. The palate boasts a slightly honeyed texture and fine depth, revealing touches of honeycomb and spice on the complex finish that lingers in the mouth. This is an excellent Chenin Blanc. Drinking Window: 2025 – 2038
2020 DeMorgenzon Chardonnay Reserve 91 points
The 2020 Chardonnay Reserve comes from a year when the vineyard team could spray the vineyard less frequently than usual. Matured in 30% new French oak with 30% malo, this has a lively bouquet with touches of dried honey, white flowers and subtle flinty scents. The palate is well balanced with a slightly tangy entry. It reveals notes of Clementine and grapefruit that dovetail into a slightly leesy, ginger-tinged finish that just needs to forage a tad more mineralité. Otherwise, this is a solid, texturally satisfying Chardonnay Drinking Window: 2025 – 2032
Neil Martin August 2024
Highly regarded winemaker Kym Milne took over the winemaking role at Golden Amrita for the 2019 vintage and in a very short time has been awarded many accolades and raised the profile of these fabulous wines.
Their success includes the following awards:
2020 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz
• International Wine Challenge (IWC), London – Trophy for the Best Barossa Valley Shiraz of Show, Gold medal, 95 pts
• Winestate Magazine, Australia – World Shiraz Competition – 98pts and Equal Top of Category.
• The Drinks Business Magazine (UK) Global Syrah Masters Competition – Gold Medal
• The Drinks Business Asia – Asian Syrah Masters Competition – “Master”. The “Master” award is the highest possible in the competition – only a very small number of wines are awarded this accolade.
• The Drinks Business Asia 2022 Winter Tasting – “Master”
• Melbourne International Wine Competition – Gold Medal, 95 pts
• 2022 Mundus Vini, Germany – Gold Medal
• 2022 Hong Kong Int Wine & Spirit Comp (HKIWSC) – Gold Medal
• 2023 Hong Kong International Wine Competition (HKIWSC) – Gold medal
• 2023 Syrah du Monde Wine Competition (France) – Gold medal
• 2023 The Drinks Business (UK) Global Syrah Masters – Gold medal
• 2023 The Drinks Business Asian Syrah Masters (Hong Kong) – Gold medal
• Wine Showcase magazine (Australia) – Gold medal
2019 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz
• 2021 & 2022 Mundus Vini, Germany – Gold medal
• Winestate Magazine, Australia – World Shiraz Competition – 97 pts.
• The Drinks Business Asia – Asian Syrah Masters Competition – “Master”.
• Wine Showcase Magazine (Aus) – Gold
• Andrea Pritzker MW – 95 pts.
Andrea’s tasting notes were “Deep inky ruby colour. Opens with an attractive medley of fresh blueberry, blackberry & mulberry. The palate is rich, full-bodied & well-structured with plentiful ripe tannins & a long finish. A generous wine showing ample concentration and beautiful balance.”
2020 Golden Amrita Lùmenval Shiraz
• Wine Showcase Magazine (Aus) – Gold medal, 95 pts
• Vinous -92 pts
• International Wine Challenge – Silver
• 2023 The Drinks Business Asian Syrah Masters (Hong Kong) – Gold medal
• The Wine Journal – 95 points, Andrew Caillard MW.
Andrews tasting note: “Medium-deep crimson. Intense dark chocolate, blackberry, dark cherry, black liquorice aromas with hints of cedar wood. Generous and sweet-fruited with ample black fruits, lovely dark chocolate/mocha notes, fine grainy tannins, superb mid-palate buoyancy, fresh integrated acidity and well-balanced oak. Finishes velvety and long. Now- 2034.”
2021 Golden Amrita Sunshine Hill Shiraz
• 2024 IWSC (UK) – Gold medal
• Gold Medal, Sakura Women’s Wine Awards – Japan
• Gold Medal. Melbourne International Wine Competition
• 2023 The Drinks Business Asian Syrah Masters (Hong Kong) – Gold medal
• 2023 Hong Kong International Wine Competition (HKIWSC) – Gold medal
• Wine Showcase magazine (Aus) – Gold medal
• International Wine Challenge– Silver medal
Please visit the Golden Amrita page of our website for further information
NEWSFLASH…
On the 17th May 2024, the Langhorne Creek Wine Show celebrated 10 years on the national wine show circuit. Bremerton were very proud to take home an impressive 5 trophies 🏆consisting of:
Producer of the Year – awarded to the winery with the highest total of judges’ points over 3 classes
Best Cabernet Sauvignon – 2022 Coulthard Cabernet – available from Seckford Agencies
Best Shiraz – 2021 Selkirk Shiraz – available from Seckford Agencies
plus a further 2 trophies:
Best red or white made from alternative or other variety – 2022 Special Release Graciano ( not available in the UK)
Chair of Judges Trophy – 2023 Special Release Mourvèdre (not available in the UK)
Bremerton were delighted with these results, “it’s an awesome reflection of the passion that we have for our brand and our Langhorne Creek region”.
Kirrihill are thrilled to announce our triumphant win of the prestigious Best 2023 Riesling Trophy at the esteemed National Wine Show of Australia held in Canberra last Thursday. Our winemaker, Alexandra Wardlaw, was presented the trophy by the Prime Minister, The Hon Anthony Albanese, for the 2023 Kirrihill Regional Riesling.
The show has been a highlight of the Australian wine industry since it began in 1975. As only the highest-awarded wines at qualifying Australian wine shows make it to the judging table, National Wine Show trophy winners represent the best of the best Australian wines.
Outshining fierce competition from across the nation, this outstanding achievement emphasises our dedication to crafting exceptional wines that embody the rich viticultural landscape of the Clare Valley. This trophy is not only a win for Kirrihill but the region of Clare Valley as a whole.
Our CEO, Matthew Lawson, sums up this achievement beautifully. “To win a trophy at the National Wine Show is a great honour. You are up against the best of the best from around Australia. There are some magnificent regions that grow Riesling in this country, but it is always great to see the trophy back in Clare, the Heart of Riesling, and it is a testament to the great team we have in place from the vineyard through to the bottle.”
Indeed, all members of our team were elated. From Alexandra, “we pride ourselves as a team in crafting wines from our exceptional vineyards, we must be doing something right!”
Catherine & the Kirrihill Team
Kirrihill’s trophy winning 2023 Regional Riesling is now available for purchase from Seckford Agencies
Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Chardonnay 2022*
De Morgenzon Reserve Syrah 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2022 #
Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2022 *
Rustenberg Chardonnay 2023
De Morgenzon Maestro Red 2021
De Morgenzon Maestro White 2022
De Morgenzon Reserve Chardonnay 2020 #
De Morgenzon Reserve Chenin 2022 #
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 2023
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2022 *
Rustenberg Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 *
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2022
Rustenberg Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon 2021
Rustenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Rustenberg Wild Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 2023 *
Rustenberg Wild Ferment Unwooded Chardonnay 2023
Rustenberg Malbec 2022
Rustenberg Grenache Blanc 2023
Steenberg Catharina 2020 #
* vintage available, # vintage on order
ERIN LARKIN/ROBERT PARKER/WINE ADVOCATE
ESCARPMENT KUPE PINOT NOIR 2022 94+ POINTS
The 2022 Kupe Pinot Noir is mouth filling and complex, with gravitas and weight without being heavy. The splay of tannin in the mouth starts right at the very front and fans out through the long finish. It is the most harmonious and intense of the four single-vineyard wines tasted here today, and while I am seriously attracted to the levity and intrigue of the Kiwa, this Kupe is wonderful for different reasons. There’s density, muscle, slow/patient repose and complex nuance in the mouth. It’s a great, distinct wine. Sealed under screw cap. Kupe was picked on March 31. The Abel clone was used. It’s close-planted (this is the last pick from the close-planted vines, which have now been pulled out). It’s on its own roots and planted at a higher density, but it was hit by phylloxera, sadly. The wine was plunged once daily and was on the skins for 30 days. Aging was in 42% new French barriques, with the balance in one- and two-year-old barrels. It was in barrel for 20 months with no racking prior to bottling in December 2023. 14.5% alcohol.
ESCARPMENT KIWA PINOT NOIR 2022 93+ POINTS
The vineyard for the 2022 Kiwa Pinot Noir has changed since a recent acquisition and change of hands of the original Kiwa block, which is situated in the town of Martinborough. The wine leads with spiced strawberry, cherry, pomegranate molasses, red apple and pink peppercorn. The wine is mineral and spicy, with a spool of finely milled tannin and acid, which feels intimately connected. It’s febrile. There’s a hint of red liquorice and orange rind and tobacco through the finish. Texture really is key to the experience here. While the fruit is red and white, the texture has a grippy, mineral character to it. It’s an intriguing and elevating offset to the fruit profile. This shift in gear midway across the palate makes for complex drinking. Very good. It will be even better in a few years, I’d wager. 13.5% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Kiwa was picked early on March 27, driven by the weather. There was no hang time in 2022, with no picking at leisure. This is mostly clone 115, with the balance Abel clone and clone 943. Made with 43% whole bunch, the wine spent time in 40% new oak, with the balance in two-year-old barrels and older. It spent 27 days on the skins, plunged daily, and then spent 20 months in oak without racking. It was bottled in December 2023.
ESCARPMENT PAHI PINOT NOIR 2022 93 POINTS
The 2022 Pahi Pinot Noir is only the second Pahi since 2014 (2020 was the other one), due to a change of ownership of the Pahi Vineyard. The wine has a succulent, chewy texture that is most pleasurable on the mid-palate. There’s red fruit, particularly pomegranate, that melds beautifully with a gentle shortcrust pastry character, pink peppercorns and a hint of clove and arnica through the finish. The ripeness of the wine is evident in a splay of dried red fruits through the finish, specifically goji berries. 14% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Pahi is a slightly more vigorous block with four hectares. This was made with clones Abel, 5, 115 and 667, and 37% whole bunch fruit was used, with 28 days on the skins. Aging was in 30% new oak (mostly Quintessence), and the balance was one- and two-year old barrels. It was in oak for 20 months without racking before bottling.
ESCARPMENT TE REHUA PINOT NOIR 2022 93 POINTS
The 2022 Te Rehua Pinot Noir is the darkest in colour, with lashings of brooding exotic spice, black cherries, blood plum and even a hint of pepper-rolled pastrami. In the mouth, the wine is illuminated by fresh acidity; the ripe fruit speaks of blackberries and mouth-filling sweet roasted beetroot and brine. There is a duality of ripe fruit and very fine acidity in the mouth; they sit comfortably within each other’s arms. 14.2% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. Te Rehua was planted in the 1990s, in town, at 1.5 hectares and using massal selection of clones. Normally, it’s the first pick of the vintage, as it’s a warmer site sheltered by hedges—brilliant hedges in New Zealand. Grapes were picked on March 20, where they sat on the skins for 25 days. Made with 21% whole bunch (normally around 50%), it was pressed down to 43% in new French barriques, with the balance being one- and two-year old barrels. It spent 20 months in oak, with no racking prior to bottling.
ESCARPMENT PINOT NOIR 2022 92 POINTS The 2022 Pinot Noir is super spicy on the nose, with sumac, blood orange, tobacco, black tea and cherry pip. In the mouth, the wine is light and spicy but intense—the acidity feels like it wraps around the fruit, leading to a fine-boned and red-fruited expression. It’s a beauty. Really elegant but structural. The tannins are ductile and focused. I like the grip and pull of the tannins through the finish. It seems to plume with a coal dust, graphite character. 13.7% alcohol, sealed under screw cap. This wine was made with 24% whole bunch fruit, and 75% came from the Te Muna Road Vineyard, with the balance from town. It was on the skins for 25 days, then spent 11 months in 27% new oak. It was in tank for a further nine months prior to bottling.
ESCARPMENT CHARDONNAY 2022 93 POINTS
The 2022 Chardonnay shows a cooler vintage than 2021 which saw lots of rain, not a lot of sunshine and some disease pressure—the start of a wet 2023. This is starkly different on the nose! There’s far less reduction and flint. This is pretty, floral, pure and mineral. In the mouth, this has a sublime quality to it. It’s far sleeker and more polished than the 2021. This tastes far more like a place, this place, than the reduction in the previous wine. It’s great!. Clones 95, 548 and Mendoza were used. 13% alcohol, sealed under screw cap.
JAMES SUCKLING TASTING REPORT 2024
ESCARPMENT KIWA PINOT NOIR 2022 94 POINTS
Focused and vivid with a firmness and linear length as well as strawberry, lemon and stone character. It’s medium-bodied with creamy tannins and a focused and savoury finish. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
ESCARPMENT TE REHUA PINOT NOIR 2022 93 POINTS
Dried flowers with cedar, bark, sage and lavender on the nose, not to mention the strawberries and light cherries. Medium-bodied with focused tannins that highlight the juicy fruit and hints of spices. Some bark and dark chocolate at the end. Drink or hold. Screw cap.
ESCARPMENT PAHI PINOT NOIR 2022 93 POINTS
A fresh and fine pinot with delicate strawberry and orange peel character. Medium-bodied with fine tannins and a crisp finish. Better in a year or two, but already delicious. Drink or hold.
ESCARPMENT KUPE PINOT NOIR 2022 93 POINTS
Very pretty aromas with strawberry and peach character as well as fresh rose petals and lavender. Medium-bodied with fine and crunchy tannins and a creamy textured finish. Balanced for the vintage. Drink now or hold.
ESCARPMENT PINOT NOIR 2022 92 POINTS
Creamy peach, lemon blossom, dried strawberry and cherry aromas that follow through to a medium body. Lovely fresh, balanced and focused tannins that are nicely polished. Just a bit of bitterness at the end, giving it interest. Very drinkable now but better in two or three years. Screw cap
MATTHEW JUKES – WEDNESDAY WINES – EPISODE 218
High praise for the 2022 Escarpment single vineyards from Matthew Jukes. To read the article, click here
….and the results are in from the 2024 DWWA competition. Seckford Agencies are delighted to announce our award winning wines as follows:
Paul Cluver 2023 Sauvignon Blanc 96 pts #
Ernie Els 2022 Major Series Cabernet Sauvignon 95 pts
Trentham 2022 Estate Reserve Shiraz 94 pts*
Bouchard Finlayson 2022 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 93 pts *
Donkiesbaai 2023 Steen 93 pts #
Waterford Estate 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon 93 pts *
Bouchard Finlayson 2022 Missionvale Chardonnay 92 pts #
Cirrus 2022 Pinot Noir 92 pts
Rust en Vrede 2021 Estate Vineyards Syrah 92 pts *
Glenelly 2019 Lady May 92 pts
Paul Cluver 2021 Estate Chardonnay 92 pts
Stellenbosch Reserve 2023 Moederkerk Chardonnay 92 pts
Bouchard Finlayson 2021 Hannibal 91 pts
Donkiesbaai 2020 Suiderkruis 91 pts
Paul Cluver 2022 Seven Flags Chardonay 91 pts #
Rustenberg 2022 Five Soldiers Chardonnay 91 pts *
Rustenberg 2023 Chardonnay 91 pts
Stellenbosch Reserve 2022 Vanderstel 91 pts
Demorgenzon 2020 Reserve Syrah 91 pts
Rust en Vrede 2020 Estate 90 pts *
Golden Amrita 2020 Single Estate Shiraz 90 pts *
Golden Amrita 2021 Single Estate Shiraz 90 pts
Paul Cluver 2023 Village Chardonnay 90 pts
Ernie Els 2018 Signature 90 pts
Ernie Els 2021 Proprietor’s Blend 90 pts
Demorgenzon 2021 Maestro Red 90 pts
Glenelly 2022 Estate Reserve Chardonnay 89 pts #
Golden Amrita 2021 Lùmenval Moppa Shiraz 89 pts
Paul Cluver 2022 Estate Chardonnay 89 pts
Paul Cluver 2023 Village Pinot Noir 89 pts
Paul Cluver 2022 Estate Pinot Noir 89 pts *
Rustenberg 2021 Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon 89 pts
Rustenberg 2022 John X Merriman 89 pts
Rustenberg 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon 89 pts *
Stellenbosch Reserve 2022 Ou Hoofgebou Cabernet Sauvignon 89 pts
Trentham 2016 Estate Reserve Noble Taminga Botrytis 89 pts
Demorgenzon 2020 Reserve Chardonnay 89 pts #
Bouchard Finlayson 2023 Sans Barrique Chardonnay 88 pts #
Rust en Vrede 2022 Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 88 pts
Rustenberg 2023 Wild Ferment Unwooded Chardonnay 88 pts
Rustenberg 2023 Grenache Blanc 88 pts
Wooing Tree 2021 Pinot Noir 88 pts
Ernie Els 2022 Big Easy Red Blend 88 pts (*Mags available)
Demorgenzon 2022 Reserve Chenin Blanc 88 pts #
Glenelly 2017 Estate Reserve 87 pts #
Rustenberg 2023 Sauvignon Blanc 87 pts
Rustenberg 2022 Malbec 87 pts
Steenberg Vineyards 2020 Catharina 87 pts #
Capel Vale 2023 Regional Series Riesling 87 pts
Glenelly 2021 Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 86 pts
Golden Amrita 2021 Sunshine Hill Shiraz 86 pts *
Rustenberg 2023 Wild Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 86 pts *
Trentham Estate 2023 The Family Vermentino 86 pts
Trentham Estate 2022 The Family Nebbiolo 86 pts
Capel Vale 2021 Regional Series Shiraz 86 pts
* stock available of award vintage
# stock of award winning vintage on order
The first tranche of results are in from this years IWSC. The bulk of entries from Seckford Agencies will be judged in South Africa in July, but we are delighted to announce the following winners from Australia & New Zealand:
IWSC Gold Medal
Golden Amrita Sunshine Hill Shiraz 2021*
IWSC Silver Medal
Trentham Estate Reserve Shiraz 2022
IWSC Bronze medals
Golden Amrita Lumenval Moppa Shiraz 2020*
Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 2021
Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 2016
Trentham Estate The Family Nebbiolo 2022
Trentham Estate The Family Vermentino 2023
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2021
* Vintages currently in stock and linked to further information on the website
Congratulations to all our winners this year.
Vintages marked with an * are currently in stock and linked to the website.
Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 2021
Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 2022
Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 2020*
Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2022
Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 2023
Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2022
Wooing Tree Pinot Noir 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2022
Golden Amrita Lumenval Moppa Shiraz 2020*
Golden Amrita Sunshine Hill Shiraz 2021*
Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 2021
Golden Amrita Lumenval Moppa Shiraz
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2022
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2023
Ernie Els Major Series Cabernet Sauvignon 2022
Ernie Els Big Easy Red blend 2022
Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 2022*
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Grenache Blanc 2023
Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2022
Rustenberg Wild Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Greystone Organic Chardonnay 2022
Trentham Estate Reserve Shiraz 2022
Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 2016
Trentham Estate The Family Nebbiolo 2022
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2021
Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir 2022*
Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 2020
Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir 2023
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2023
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Rustenberg Wild Ferment Unwooded Chardonnay 2023
Steenberg Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc 2023
Steenberg Catherina 2020
Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 2021 & 2020
Fourth generation winegrowers based in Elgin, Paul Cluver Family Wines continues the vision of patriarch Dr. Paul Cluver, producing exceptional, long-lived wines from their own vineyards. This estate Chardonnay is medium lemon-yellow in hue, showing ripe orchard fruits with cream, butter and gentle toasty oak. Quince and pineapple come through on the rounded palate supported by brisk acidity. Quite full-bodied, the wine has a long sappy, savoury finish. Perfect for grilled swordfish steaks with fresh herb butter.(Patricia Stefanowicz MW)
Elgin is nestled among the Hottentots-Holland Mountains near to the oceans with exposure to the cool breezes from the south, and so the region produces cool climate wines. This Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay shows extra complexity due to an additional year of ageing in bottle. Yet, the wine is surprisingly youthful with a pale lemon-green colour and delicate green fruits, white flower and lifted vanilla pod and brioche. Light-bodied, the palate has racy acidity, excellent definition and a delicate touch of spice on the long finish. Perfect with Dover sole or Oysters Rockefeller where the wine’s zingy acidity plays the high notes and the gentle smoky oak the low notes.
(Patricia Stefanowicz MW)
Australia’s signature labels continue to play a key role in maintaining the country’s reputation for quality. Bottlings from Mollydooker consistently top the leader board—and for good reason. These estates all make compelling wines, and their scores perennially reflect that. Whether single-vineyard expressions or regional blends, the wines from these leading producers represent the best of what Australia has to offer.
Gigglepot 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon 90 pts
A ripe, generous expression of Cabernet, with blackberry cobbler, vanilla cream, fresh violet and blueberry preserves on a lush, creamy frame, plus accents of mocha. Reveals spice, cedar and additional chocolaty notes on the finish. Drink now.
Maitre’ D 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon 90 pts
A fragrant red, featuring notes of tobacco, oud, palo santo and violet, while hints of eucalyptus and iodine complement the blackberry and blueberry syrup flavors and dense, toothsome tannins.
Drink now through 2036
Velvet Glove 2020 Shiraz 95 pts
Rich and opulent, with notes of chocolate cake, framboise, salted toffee and espresso, along with more savoury details of toasted cumin, rosemary and cedar. A hint of fresh spearmint and shavings of bittersweet chocolate linger on the long, velvety finish. Drink now through 2034.
Carnival of Love 2021 Shiraz 93 pts
This stylish and distinctive red is decidedly ripe, with notes of cherry and berry preserves at the core, accented by spearmint, menthol, spicy clove and cardamom hints that add complexity and aromatics. A chocolaty note gains momentum, as does a touch of sandalwood on the long, expressive finish. Drink now.
Blue Eyed Boy 2021 Shiraz 92 pts
Dense and generous, with ripe black cherry, raspberry and blueberry preserves, accents of espresso and bittersweet chocolate, plus hints of palo santo and spices on the lush, juicy finish. Drink now through 2032.
Enchanted Path 2021 Shiraz, Cabernet 92 pts
Dense and firm, with notes of graphite, black liquorice and fresh-cracked black pepper, along with cedar, tobacco and spices. Delivers ripe, concentrated dried blueberry, plum and cassis flavours, showing plenty of restraint on the black tea–laced finish. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Drink now through 2038.
Two Left Feet 2021 Shiraz, Cabernet, Merlot 92 pts
Appealing for its generosity and precision, with berry and cherry flavours that have a ripe, candied edge, showing hints of peppermint, mocha and Saigon cinnamon that add aromatics and complexity. The tannins are dense but polished, leaving a velvety impression. Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Drink now.
Boxer 2021 Shiraz 91 pts
Plush and polished, with ripe notes of maraschino cherry, milk chocolate and raspberry pre serves. Details of cinnamon, spicy tobacco and cumin add aromatic interest, with a lingering thread of toasted herbs. Drink now through 2029.
Despite the trials the country has faced, quality Australian wines remain widely available stateside. The country’s producers offer both benchmark styles and innovative expressions, all while maintaining a commitment to sustainable practices. The hope is that wine fans around the world are paying attention, because Australian wines are more than living up to their promise.
We are delighted to announce FOUR GOLD awards from International Wine Challenge with the Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2021 winning the Trophy for best South African White wine and 2021 Greystone Chardonnay receiving multiple trophies, namely the Canterbury Chardonnay Trophy, New Zealand Chardonnay Trophy and best New Zealand White Trophy.
Gold medal wines in stock:
Paul Cluver Noble Late Harvest Riesling 2021 – 95 points
Roses, lime, marmalade, beautiful poise and tension between high acid and high sugar, complex, touch of texture, great variety and long juicy finish
DeMorgenzon Reserve Chardonnay 2019 – 95 points
A lovely rich ripe style full of ripe mango and tropical fruits. Less contact giving a nice creamy texture. Toasty notes.
…. and Silver medals including:
Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 2021
Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 2020
Glenelly Estate Reserve Red Blend 2016
Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 2018
Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 2022
Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2021
Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria 2021
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2022
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Malbec 2021
Golden Amrita single Estate 2020
Bronze medals
Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2021
Glenelly Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2021
Rustenberg John X Merriman 2021
Rustenberg Peter Barlow 2020
Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 2015
Kirrihill regional Riesling 2022
Golden Amrita single Estate 2019
CONGRATULATIONS to all our award winning producers
The following wines were awarded medals at this year’s IWC competition:
GOLD & TROPHY 2020 Bouchard Finlayson Tete de Cuvee Pinot Noir – SA Red Trophy 95 pts (2020 vintage available Autumn 2022)
GOLD & TROPHY 2020 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz – Barossa Valley Shiraz Trophy 95 pts
GOLD 2020 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 95 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Crocodile’s Lair Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 93 pts
2019 Bouchard Finlayson Hannibal 93 pts *
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 91 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Sans Barrique Chardonnay 92 pts
2020 Ernie Els Big Easy Red Blend 90 pts
2019 Golden Amrita Single Estate Shiraz 93 pts*
2019 Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 90 pts*
2020 Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir 90 pts*
2021 Paul Cluver Estate Riesling 90 pts*
2021 Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 90 pts*
2018 Paul Cluver Seven Flags Pinot Noir 92 pts
2021 Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 92 pts
2020 Rustenberg John X Merriman 91 pts*
2020 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 92pts
2018 Trentham Estate Reserve Chardonnay 92 pts*
2015 Trentham Estate Reserve Noble Taminga 92 pts
2021 Capel Vale Mount Barker Riesling 90 pts
2020 Capel Vale Whispering Hill Riesling 90 pts
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Blanc de Mer
2020 Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir*
2021 Bouchard Finlayson Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc*
2021 Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Chenin Blanc
2019 Greystone Organic Pinot Noir
2020 Paul Cluver Village Pinot Noir*
2020 Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay*
2021 Rustenberg Fortified Muscat Blanc*
2021 Rustenberg Fortified Old Vine Muscat of Alexandria*
2019 Rustenberg Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon*
2021 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Chardonnay*
2021 Rustenberg Stellenbosch Sauvignon Blanc*
NV Trentham Estate Reserve Blanc de Blanc
2021 Doctors’ Rose
2021 Kaapzicht Bush Vine Chenin Blanc
2020 Capel Vale Regional Cabernet Sauvignon
2021 Capel Vale Regional Sauvignon Blanc
* Awarded vintage currently in stock.
Please contact the office on 01206 231188 for availability of other wines.
Seckford are delighted to announce the following wines have been awarded the highest accolade from the prestigious Platter South African Wine Guide:
Ernie Els Wines Signature 2015
Glenelly Estate Lady May 2017
Glenelly Estate Lady May 2016
Kaapzicht Wine Estate The 1947 2020
Kanonkop Estate Black Label 2019
Lemberg Wine Estate Lady 2020
Rustenberg Wines Five Soldiers 2019
Rust en Vrede Wine Estate 1694 Classification 2018
Rust en Vrede Wine Estate Single Vineyard 2018
Rust en Vrede Wine Estate 2018
To read more, please click here
Eagerly awaited each year, Tim Atkin’s comprehensive South African Wine report is well worth the price of admission for any lover of SA wines. It contains a wealth of additional information besides the scores and awards.
Below is the line-up of impressive scores for our listed wineries:
Bouchard Finlayson – Third Growth
94 pts. Bouchard Finlayson Kaaimansgat Chardonnay 2019
Elandskloof (13.6%)
Kaaimansgat, also known as Elandskloof, is a superb vineyard for Chardonnay, typified by
the reliably impressive quality of this brilliant wine. Showing classic struck match aromas,
stony intensity, lemon butter flavours and the structure and minerality of the site. 2022-27
93 pts. Bouchard Finlayson Missionvale Chardonnay 2019
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (13.7%)
Missionvale all comes from Bouchard Finlayson’s vineyards in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley
and is the broader and more concentrated of its two top Chardonnays. Honeyed, spicy and
textured, with fine oak and notes of pear and patisserie. 2022-27
96 pts. Bouchard Finlayson Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir 2019
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (13.9%)
I can’t remember tasting a better young Tête de Cuvée release than this, so berets off to
Chris Albrecht and Peter Finlayson. Scented, detailed and autumnal, with gamey sweetness,
forest floor top notes, fine texture, understated concentration and savoury tannins. 2022-29
92 pts. Bouchard Finlayson Galpin Peak Pinot Noir 2019
Hemel-en-Aarde Valley (13.7%)
Galpin Peak is the more approachable of the Bouchard Finlayson Pinot Noirs in 2019 and is
designed that way. Aged in 30% new wood, this is sweet, floral and polished, with succulent
red berry fruit and more tannic backbone than you appreciate at first. Assured and well
balanced with rose petal top notes. 2021-26
Paul Cluver – Second Growth
95 pts. Paul Cluver Seven Flags Chardonnay 2020
Elgin (12.5%)
Back after a fire-induced break in 2019, this superb Chardonnay comes from the oldest vines
at Paul Cluver, planted in 1987. Structured, textured and layered, with Meursault-like levels
of concentration, flavours of waxed lemon and orange zest, subtle oak and an acid-driven
finish. 2022-28
93 pts – Paul Cluver Estate Chardonnay 2020
Elgin (12.5%)
Wild fermented in one-third new wood, the estate Chardonnay comes from older vines and is
another very impressive iteration of the grape from the Paul Cluver team. Reflecting the cool
growing season, this is fresh and focused, with notes of cream and toast and palate-cleansing
acidity. 2021-25
93 pts – Paul Cluver Village Chardonnay 2020
Elgin (12.5%)
Andries Burger makes some of the best Chardonnays in the Cape, even at this entry-point
level. Amazing at the price, this is a South African Chablis style, with a touch of oak, pithy
acidity, flavours of citrus and crème fraîche and impressive palate length. 2021-27
92 pts – Paul Cluver Estate Riesling 2020
Elgin (12.4%)
The estate Riesling is made in a Halbtrocken style, with 16.4 grams of residual sugar
balanced by steely acidity. Lime and white peach flavours lead into a tangy, chiselled,
refreshing finish. Ludicrously cheap for a wine of this quality. 2022-27
91 pts- Paul Cluver Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Elgin (12.4%)
Showing a lot more weight and intensity than most commercial Sauvignon Blancs, this is dry,
rich and nicely focused, with notes of elderflower and citrus, a nettley undertone and a leesy,
creamy mid palate. 2021-23
93 pts – Paul Cluver Estate Pinot Noir 2020
Elgin (13.25%)
A medley of Burgundian clones (113, 115, 667 and 777) supply the raw material for this
serious Pinot Noir, which is focused, savoury and well balanced, with dark cherry and wild
strawberry fruit, fine tannins and a patina of oak spice. A wine to cellar for a year or two.
2022-28
96 pts – Paul Cluver Noble Late Harvest Riesling 2020
Elgin (12%)
Not produced every year, alas – the last release was the 2017 – this is a world-class sweet wine
from the Cluvers, with peach and nectarine fruit, underlying lime and lemon peel freshness
and a near-perfect balance between acidity and 146 grams of residual sugar. 2022-27
Darling Cellars – Cru Bourgeois
90 pts. Darling Cellars Old Bush Vines Chenin Blanc 2019
Darling (14.2%)
Low-yielding bush vines planted in the late 1970s supply the grapes for this intense, exotic
Darling Chenin Blanc. Rich leesy and creamy, with pineapple and stone fruit sweetness
supported by acidity and framed by subtle oak. 2021-24
DeMorgenzon – Second Growth
95 pts DeMorgenzon Chenin Blanc Reserve 2020
Stellenbosch (14.1%)
The spicy vanilla and cinnamon is still a little assertive right now, but this is a very young
wine that’s designed to age in bottle. Focused and granitic, with chiselled acidity, fine oak,
floral top notes and crunchy apple and citrus fruit. One of Stellenbosch’s top Chenins.
2022-28
94 pts. DeMorgenzon Chardonnay Reserve 2020
Stellenbosch (13.5%)
Two south-facing blocks in the heart of the estate supply the fruit for this rich, layered,
assertively wooded young Chardonnay. Pear and melon fruit flavours are framed by spicy
30% new wood and segue into a fresh, tangy, saline finish. 2022-28
93 pts. DeMorgenzon Maestro White 2019
Stellenbosch (14%)
Boasting the highest ever Roussanne component, blended with 52% Chenin Blanc,
Chardonnay, Viognier, Marsanne and Grenache Blanc, this is a complex, layered wine that
will reward patience. Floral, focused and harmonious with a savoury, herbal undertone and
flavours of lime, nectarine and lemon zest. 2022-27
91 pts DeMorgenzon DMZ Chenin Blanc 2020
Stellenbosch (13.3%)
Given the quality of the top DeMorgenzon Chenins, it’s no surprise that this entry-point
bottling is so good. Made with purchased and estate grapes, it’s a lightly wooded, herbal
style with pear and citrus fruit and some stony grip. 2021-24
90 pts. DeMorgenzon DMZ Chardonnay 2020
Stellenbosch (13.8%)
The DMZ Chardonnay sees older wood, stainless steel, foudres and eggs, not because
of lack of space but because each adds something different. Crisp, focused and appealing,
with subtle baking spices, pear and lemongrass flavours. 2021-24
90 pts DeMorgenzon DMZ Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Stellenbosch (13.9%)
Part of the great value DMZ range, which often over-delivers in the glass, this is a juicy,
herbal, zesty Sauvignon Blanc with lime, grapefruit and wet stone flavours and subtle
minerality. 2021-23
93 pts DeMorgenzon Syrah Reserve 2019
Stellenbosch (14.4%)
Meaty, youthful and showing some of the reduction that Syrah can be prone to in its
first couple of years, this has lots of blood and guts, granitic intensity, fine oak and the
concentration to develop in bottle. 2024-29
91 pts. DeMorgenzon DMZ Syrah 2019
Stellenbosch (14.2%)
Making the most of the warmer conditions in 2018, this is a peppery, layered, perfumed
Syrah with good structure, very little oak, some wild herbs and intense, grippy blackberry
fruit. 2022-26
91 pts DeMorgenzon Maestro Red 2019
Stellenbosch (14.3%)
Something of an outlier in the Rhône, Chenin and Chardonnay-focused DeMorgenzon range,
this is a Cabernet Sauvignon-based red with 37% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Petite
Sirah. Serious, compact and sturdy with damson and blackberry fruit, some wild herbs and
bright, underpinning acidity. 2023-29
90 pts. DeMorgenzon DMZ Grenache Noir 2019
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
DeMorgenzon’s Grenache is planted in a warm, north-facing site and produces a firm,
savoury wine that delivers a lot of flavour for your money. Very light wooded with bramble
and red cherry flavour and granitic intensity. 2022-26
Ernie Els Wines – Cru Bourgeois
93 pts. Ernie Els Signature 2016
Stellenbosch (15%)
The flagship bottling from Ernie Els features all five Bordeaux grapes, with Cabernet
Sauvignon assisted by 40% Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Ripe and figgy,
with smooth tannins, toasty 70% new wood, liquorice and dried herbs and a firm finish.
2022-26
92 pts Ernie Els Proprietor’s Blend 2018
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
Big, bold and plush, this is a deftly oaked, well-judged assemblage from Louis Strydom,
featuring Cabernet Sauvignon with 40% Syrah, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Cabernet Franc and
Malbec. Smoky, textured and ripe with dark berry fruit and supporting tannins and acidity.
2022-28
90 pts Ernie Els Major Series Merlot 2018
Stellenbosch (14.85%)
Full-flavoured, as the Ernie Els wines tend to be, but this Stellenbosch Merlot is as smooth
as the famous golfer’s swing and not without some finesse. Bramble, mulberry and fine oak
are complemented by tannic structure. 2022-25
Glenelly – Second Growth
90 pts Glenelly Estate Chardonnay Reserve 2020
Stellenbosch (12.5%)
Luke O’Cuinneagain sources his Chardonnay from alluvial soils as the foot of Glenelly’s
famous slope. Barrel-fermented in 18% new 500-litre oak, it has peach, melon and citrus
flavours, some cream from partial malolactic and subtle cinnamon spice. 2021-24
97 pts Glenelly Lady May 2017
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
Right up there with the best Stellenbosch Bordeaux-style blends from the exceptional 2017
vintage, this is a distinguished, patrician wine where everything is in place: tannins, acidity,
oak and fruit concentration. Marrying Cabernet Sauvignon with 10% Cabernet Franc and
Petit Verdot, it has iodine and mint aromas, red berry and cassis flavours, subtle vanilla
spice and impressive underlying structure. A red to cellar. 2024-35
94pts. Glenelly Lady May 2016
Stellenbosch (14%)
“Warm, but not crazily so,” is how Luke O’Cuinneagain describes the 2016 vintage, which
has produced a Lady May that is plusher and a little more open than the 2015 was at the
same stage but still comparatively firm and youthful. Combining Cabernet Sauvignon with
20% Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot, it has damson, blackcurrant and tobacco leaf
flavours, grippy tannins and polished oak. 2024-30
93 pts. Glenelly Estate Reserve Red 2016
Stellenbosch (14%)
Something of a tribute to the Bordeaux “Hermitagé” wines of old, this is Cabernet Sauvignon based with 42% Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc and 15% Syrah. Focused, taut, spicy
and elegant, with granular tannins, layers of dark berry fruit, subtle one-third new wood and
the density to age in bottle. 2024-30
92 pts. Glenelly The Glass Collection Cabernet Franc 2019
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
The best of the Glass Collection reds in 2019, this impressive Cabernet Franc comes from
an east-facing parcel at the top of the slope. A homage to Chinon, it has dark plum and black
cherry fruit, notes of graphite and capsicum and ageworthy tannins. 2023-29
92 pts. Glenelly The Glass Collection Merlot 2019
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
You’d expect an estate owned by Bordeaux legend May-Eliane de Lencquesaing to be good
at producing tasty entry-point Merlots and you’d be right. Chocolate and mint aromas are a
prelude to a medley of bramble, black cherry and mocha oak with good supporting tannins.
2023-30
90 pts. Glenelly The Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Stellenbosch (13.5%)
Serious, structured and – it seems fair to make the comparison – rather Bordeaux like, this is
a youthful, compact, mint, damson and coffee bean flavoured Cabernet Sauvignon with leafy
tannins and fresh acidity. 2022-27
90pts. Glenelly The Glass Collection Syrah 2019
Stellenbosch (14%)
A wine that delivers lots of flavour for your money, this is mostly whole bunch fermented
and has the spices and stemmy texture to prove it. Peppery, savoury and gutsy with sinewy
tannins and blackberry fruit. 2022-25
Kaapzicht –Fourth Growth
96 pts. Kaapzicht The 1947 Chenin Blanc 2020
Stellenbosch (13.27%)
Tropical, exotic and richly flavoured it may be, but this stunning old-vine Chenin Blanc is
beautifully poised and balanced with incredible focus and palate length. Dense, nuanced
and finely oaked, it has honey, nectarine and apple pie flavours, zesty acidity and delightful
minerality and length. 2022-28
92 pts. Kaapzicht Steytler Pinotage 2018
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
The 70% new wood is pretty punchy here, adding structure as well as toasty flavours to the
wine, but it’s matched by intense bramble and blackberry fruit, with layered tannins, good
acidity and notes of aromatic Asian spices. 2023-28
91 pts. Kaapzicht Steytler Pentagon 2017
Stellenbosch (14.57%)
Still young at the moment, and expressing the concentration of the 2017 vintage, this is a
dark, inky, brooding red marrying Cabernet Sauvignon with 50% Cabernet Franc, Merlot,
Malbec and Petit Verdot. Chocolatey oak frames intense liquorice, damson and cassis fruit.
Needs time to soften. 2022-28
Kanonkop – First Growth
96 pts. Kanonkop Black Label Pinotage 2019
Stellenbosch (13.59%)
The yields are tiny at two tons per hectare in this 68-year-old Pinotage block, which partly
explains the high price. But it’s also an attempt to wave the flag for a variety that Kanonkop
has almost made its own. Cinnamon and ginger spice notes segue into palate that’s rich
and layered, featuring blueberry and blood orange fruit, granular tannins and vivid acidity.
2024-35
96. pts Kanonkop Paul Sauer 2018
Stellenbosch (13.9%)
The latest vintage of this iconic Cape cuvée marries Cabernet Sauvignon with 15% each of
Cabernet Franc and Merlot. There’s no sign of the heat of the vintage or of the extraction you
find in some Stellenbosch reds in 2018. Subtle, smooth and graceful, this is characteristically
perfumed and complete, with fine new wood, detailed tannins, racy acidity and tobacco,
green herb and cassis flavours. 2024-35
95. pts. Kanonkop Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Stellenbosch (14.9%)
The quality of the 2015 Paul Sauer alerted us to the fact that this was a special vintage for
Cabernet Sauvignon on the farm and this wine supplies further proof. Sourced from six
parcels, it has elegant 50% new wood, violet, liquorice and fynbos aromas, svelte tannins,
graphite and blackcurrant leaf flavours and a volatile lift 2024-32
94. pts. Kanonkop Pinotage 2019
Stellenbosch (14.9%)
It’s no mean feat to make 75,000 bottles of a Pinotage of this quality, which expresses
all of the good things about the variety and none of its weaknesses. Rich, supple and violet scented, with glossy tannins, fine 80% new oak and succulent strawberry and blackberry
fruit. 2023-30
92. pts. Kanonkop Kadette Cabernet Sauvignon 2019
Stellenbosch (13.3%)
Even in a tricky Stellenbosch vintage like 2019, this impressive, ludicrously good value
Cabernet Sauvignon delivers the goods. Structured, perfumed and sensitively wooded, it
has serious tannins for a R150 red, notes of mint and cassis and a textured, detailed finish.
2022-27
92. pts Kanonkop Kadette Cape Blend 2019
Stellenbosch (13.8%)
My favourite of the Kadette reds – and it’s a wine that I drink often at home – this is a
gloriously accessible 1.7 million bottle red based on Pinotage with 56% Cabernet Sauvignon,
Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Smooth and appealing with graphite-laced tannins, some earth
and tobacco leaf notes, red berry and plum fruit and a hint of wood. 2021-27
90. pts. Kanonkop Kadette Pinotage 2019
Stellenbosch (14.4%)
By far the cheapest of the three Pinotages that Abri Beeslaar makes at Kanonkop, but it’s still
a very impressive wine, not least because he makes 800,000 bottles of it. Lightly wooded,
with plenty of colour, scented bramble and raspberry fruit, textured tannins and a twist of
liquorice. 2022-27
Lemberg – Fourth Growth
94 pts. Lemberg Hárslevelü 2020
Tulbagh (12.1%)
Unique in South Africa, this is a fascinating rendition of one of Hungary’s best white grapes.
Grippy, steely and concentrated, with some tannins from partial skin contact, hint of pear,
mango and lemon peel and a taut, deftly wooded finish. 2022-26
92 pts. Lemberg Lady 2020
Tulbagh (13.3%)
Lady marries Viognier with Hárslevelü, Chenin Blanc and a splash of Sauvignon Blanc,
with lots of skin contact before ageing in older wood. Struck match aromas lead into a
palate of pear, peach and citrus peel with delightful underlying structure. 2021-25
93 pts. Lemberg Louis 2019
Tulbagh (13.5%)
Earlier picked and correspondingly fresher than some recent vintages of Louis, this is a
floral, mineral-edged blend of mostly Syrah with 25% Mourvèdre and Grenache. Lightly
reductive, in a good way, with crunchy raspberry and red cherry fruit and judiciously
handled 25% new wood. 2022-29
93 pts. Lemberg Nelson 2017
Tulbagh (15.3%)
Fresher and more focused than its alcohol level might lead you to expect, this is a spicy,
layered, inky Syrah with classic whole bunch spice and texture, chewy tannins and layers
of bramble, smoked meat and blackberry flavours. 2022-27
93 pts. Lemberg Spencer 2017
Tulbagh (14.6%)
Texture and balance are the keys to this delicious Pinotage from the Lemberg team.
Plush, supple raspberry and wild strawberry flavours are framed by scented oak with
supporting acidity on the finish. 2022-27
Catherine Marshall Wines – Third Growth
95 pts. Catherine Marshall Chenin Blanc Fermented In Clay 2020
Western Cape (14%)
Combining grapes from Elgin and the Bottelary Hills, fermented in older wood and mostly
unglazed clay amphoras, this is a brilliantly judged cuvée with quince, nectarine and
grapefruit flavours, stony intensity and a waxy, balanced finish. 2022-28
93 pts Catherine Marshall Riesling 2020
Elgin (12.5%)
Typical of the elegant, understated style that runs through all of Cathy Marshall’s wines, this
is floral and just off-dry, with lovely focus, steely acidity and flavours of lime and green apple.
Classy stuff from the Cape’s original garagiste. 2021-28
91 pts Catherine Marshall Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Elgin (14%)
Cathy Marshall always seems to find extra nuances and layers in her wines, even in an entry point Sauvignon Blanc. This is made with three different clones – from the Graves, Sancerre
and South Africa – and is pithy, stony and saline, with elderflower and gunflint notes and a
long finish. 2021-24
95 pts Catherine Marshall Finite Elements Pinot Noir 2020
Elgin (13.5%)
The latest in a series of superb wines under the Finite Elements label, this is a an ambitious,
small-volume Pinot Noir from one of the Cape’s most experienced winemakers. Rich, dense
and slightly ferrous, it’s an Elgin-meets-Pommard style, with lots of grip, layers of fynbos,
aromatic spices and red berries and the structure to age in bottle. 2022-28
93 pts Catherine Marshall Pinot Noir on Clay Soils 2020
Elgin (13.5%)
Broader and more textured than its Sandstone partner, this is a little more compact and
brooding in its youth, but will reward cellaring. Spicy, savoury and well balanced, it unfurls
flavours of black cherry, earth and redcurrant in the glass, supported by fine-grained
tannins. 2021-27
93 pts Catherine Marshall Pinot Noir on Sandstone 2020
Elgin (13.5%)
The lightest and most delicate of Cathy Marshall’s three Pinot Noirs, this has enticing aromas
of wild strawberry and aromatic spices, detailed tannins, nuanced oak and a juicy summer
pudding palate. 2022-27
Steenberg – Cru Bourgeois
92 pts. Steenberg The Black Swan Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Constantia (14.1%)
Elunda Basson uses grapes from Steenberg’s two best Sauvignon Blanc vineyards to produce
this weighty but unoaked white. Leesy, creamy and intense, with blackcurrant leaf acidity
and a palate that combines grapefruit and mangetout flavours. 2021-24
90 pts Steenberg Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Constantia (14.1%)
Different parcels picked at varying levels of ripeness make up the blend of this intense
Sauvignon Blanc, which combines aromas of fresh herbs and green beans with gooseberry
and cream soda notes. Sappy and fresh. 2021-24
Rustenberg – Third Growth
93 pts. Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay 2019
Stellenbosch (13.5%)
This celebrated site on the Simonsberg always produces a very distinctive style of
Chardonnay. Bold, rich and concentrated, with stone fruit and toffee fudge flavours, stylish
60% new wood, creamy lees and underpinning acidity and focus. 2021-26
91 pts. Rustenberg Chardonnay 2020
Stellenbosch (13%)
Rustenburg’s estate Chardonnay is always a textbook Simonsberg expression of the grape,
with pear, melon and citrus fruit, some cream from full malolactic, 25% new wood and a
mineral backbone. Very drinkable. 2021-24
90 pts. Rustenberg Wild Ferment Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Stellenbosch (13%)
Rustenberg’s Sauvignon Blanc blocks are located at 500 metres on the Simonsberg and
produce a barrel-fermented wine with corresponding freshness. Citrus, elderflower and
grapefruit flavours are embellished by 12% new oak. 2021-23
95 pts. Rustenberg Peter Barlow 2018
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
An impressive follow up to the brilliant 2017, this pure Simonsberg Cabernet Sauvignon is
enjoying a rich run of form. Inky, concentrated and profound, with cedarwood and graphite
aromas, impressive structure, fine-grained tannins and fleshy plum and dark berry fruit.
2023-30
93 pts. Rustenberg John X Merriman 2019
Stellenbosch (14%)
John X is one those wines that never lets you down. Merlot based with 56% Cabernet
Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot, it’s a svelte, polished, refined red with caressing
tannins, subtle wood and cassis, red cherry and capsicum flavours. 2022-28
Waterford Estate – First Growth (Best Cellar Door Experience Award 2021)
90 pts Waterford Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Elgin (12.8%)
Waterford have been making an Elgin Sauvignon Blanc since 2009, sourced from five blocks
and picked over a period of three weeks. This is an appealingly zesty style with lime and
grapefruit flavours and a chalky bite. 2021-24
93 pts. Waterford Estate Single Vineyard Chardonnay 2018
Stellenbosch (12%)
Planted back in 1988, Chardonnay remains the only white grape on Waterford’s estate on
the Helderberg. Showing some of the creaminess and breadth of the warmer 2018 vintage,
but this subtly wooded number has lovely underlying minerality and citrus peel freshness.
2021-26
93 pts. Waterford Old Vine Project Chenin Blanc 2019
Stellenbosch (13.5%)
Purchased grapes from two vineyards in Bottelary and Devon Valley, planted in 1966 and
1978, supply the raw material for this grippy, stony, very lightly wooded Chenin, which shows
quince and green apple flavours and impressive zip, freshness and palate length. 2022-28
97 pts. Waterford Estate The Jem 2016
Stellenbosch (14.3%)
The Jem is gloriously unique, built on a base of Cabernet Sauvignon with 52% Syrah,
Mourvèdre, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Sangiovese and Barbera towering above it.
Part Bordeaux, part Rhône Valley part northern Italy, it’s also uniquely South African, with
stylish, perfumed, elegant aromas and flavours of red and black fruits, nuanced oak and a
long, tapering finish. 2025-35
95 pts. Waterford Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2017
Stellenbosch (13.5%)
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, refreshing finish. 2022-30
94 pts. Waterford Estate Single Vineyard Grenache Noir 2018
Stellenbosch (14%)
Now into its fourth vintage, the Waterford Grenache proves that you don’t have to be based
in Piekenierskloof to make great examples of the southern Rhône’s best grape. Delicate, floral
and lightly wooded, it has red cherry and raspberry fruit, supple tannins and undertones of
clove and smoked bacon. 2022-28
93 pts. Waterford Estate Kevin Arnold Shiraz 2017
Stellenbosch (14.5%)
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, refreshing finish. 2022-30
A selection of notable reviews and awards captured over the last month
We are delighted for our many winemakers as the Decanter World Wine Awards were announced in July, as they achieved 4 gold Medals and 24 silvers full details here
Bouchard Finlayson winemaker, Chris Albrecht, has been featured in Square Mile magazine this month as a ‘Taste Maker’. The Q & A covers a range of topics, including his first experience of wine, his favourite Bouchard Finlayson cuvée, discussions on the 2021 harvest and his death row bottle! Read the interview
Meanwhile, in Condé Nast Traveller, digital editor Olivia Morelli chose Bouchard Finlayson among her ‘what we’re buying’ as part of their feature ‘What the editors are loving right now’. To read the full articles
The August edition of Decanter Magazine features an article on the Adelaide Hills by David Sly. No report on the Adelaide Hills would be complete without a mention of Bird in Hand. He names them one of the region’s top producers of Shiraz, and he has awarded an incredible 97 points to their 2018 Syrah.
Joe Czerwinski writing for Wine Advocate, has reviewed a number of Escarpment wines, including their latest release single vineyard Pinot Noirs, in his ‘New Zealand: Part 2 – Mostly Not Marlborough’ article. Some Top scores for the 2019 single vineyard Pinot Noirs – which are due to arrive into UK by September.
Writing for winemag.co.za, Greg Sherwood MW has described Glenelly’s flagship wine, Lady May, a ‘Cape legend in the making‘. He tasted the 2015 vintage alongside the unreleased 2016 and 2017 vintages, click to read the notes.
…and Rebecca Gibb MW writing for vinous.com March 2021 awards 95 points and has this to say about the 2019 Greystone Pinot Noir Vineyard Ferment ‘The 2019 Pinot Noir Vineyard Ferment is literally made in the vineyard; the fermentation takes place among the vines, and the result is fragrant, pure and poised. This is the fourth such release from Greystone, and it has many layers of aromatic intrigue, from pretty red cherry coulis and floral notes to fennel and gamey characters. It offers excellent depth and fruit concentration but retains a sense of transparency and freshness. Although the wine spent 15 months maturing in oak barrels, the newest wood was third-fill, thus there’s very little oak in evidence on the nose or palate, allowing the fruit to shine. The tannins are mouth-coating and display a fine chalky texture on the lengthy finish. A sensitively made, unadulterated expression of Pinot Noir. Un-fined and unfiltered with 20% whole bunch incorporated.’
Master Sommelier and DWWA judge Eric Zwiebel presented a selection of new releases from South African winery Bouchard Finlayson at a recent tasting at the Milestone Hotel in London. See below for tasting notes and points awarded.
For the full article by Natalie Earl as featured in DECANTER ONLINE AUGUST 2021, please click here
Bouchard Finlayson, Missionvale Chardonnay, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2018
Ripe and buttery aromas are complemented by peach and grapefruit flavours. Toasty, smoky and cream cheesy, this is rich and inviting, intensely spicy and texural, leaving a slight grip on the teeth. Certainly a wine for food, like scallops or barbecued salmon…
Points 93
Bouchard Finlayson, Crocodile’s Lair / Kaaimansgat Chardonnay, Overberg, South Africa 2018
Lots of ripe white peach and blossom aromas play with warming vanilla, smoke and toast characters, providing an inviting sensory experience. A mineral edge creeps into the palate, which is enhanced by a spicy acidity. There’s noticeable oak influence, but it’s integrated and serves to add complexity to the pineapple…
Points 92
Bouchard Finlayson, Sans Barrique Chardonnay, Cape South Coast, South Africa 2018
With the focus being on purity of fruit, this is an unoaked style of Chardonnay which was fermented in stainless steel with no malolactic fermentation. This has given a subtle and elegant nose of white peach, blossom and honeysuckle. A distinct ripeness of fruit comes through, more towards the stone…
Points 92
Bouchard Finlayson, Sauvignon Blanc, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2020
This treads a nice line between freshly cut grass and lemon and lime lift. It’s not a tropical fruit bomb, instead a pithy key lime pie with a serious mineral, stony edge. The palate is big with bright florals, developing a richness, from significant extended lees maturation…
Points 91
Bouchard Finlayson, Blanc de Mer, Cape South Coast, South Africa 2019
Intensely limey and lemony on the nose, with fresh, friendly and inviting characters of lemon pith, yellow apples and jasmine blossom. Grapefruit overtones, with salty and mineral undertones. This is not a classic combination of grape varieties, but it’s a fun, enjoyable wine made for fresh seafood….
Points 89
Bouchard Finlayson, Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2019
A superb Pinot put together using only the very best barrels of Bouchard Finlayson’s flagship wine, Galpin Peak, and only made in exceptional years. A complex selection and marriage of the best new wood, coming from some of the oldest vines on the estate….
Points 95
Bouchard Finlayson, Galpin Peak Pinot Noir, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2019
Smoky and brooding on the nose, with a deep undercurrent of red currants, red cherries, bramble and dark berries. It’s both savoury and full of sweet fruit and toasted almonds, providing instant gratification. Open and inviting, and does feel a little warm on the finish…
Points 93
Bouchard Finlayson, Hannibal, Hemel-en-Aarde, Walker Bay, South Africa 2018
Intense and dominated by big spicy, meaty aromas, which follow through onto the palate. Dark ripe fruit mingles with leather and liquorice, a slightly charred, burnt character and grippy tannins. This is dominated mostly by Italian varieties Sangiovese and Nebbiolo…..
Points 90
The Decanter World Wine Awards (DWWA) were announced last week. Once again we were delighted that a number of our wines won gold and silver awards. Congratulations to all the producers listed below.
2019 Tête de Cuvée Pinot Noir, Bouchard Finlayson – 96 pts
Shows class and pedigree. A shy, tight nose of tilled earth and freshly cured bresaola. Young, tight, concentrated black fruits, mouth-watering acidity, and an intense palate.
2018 Seven Flags Chardonnay, Paul Cluver – 96 pts
Apples, cream, nuts, orange peel, and spicy oak all over the nose, with a dry, long, super moreish palate. Excellent now and for years to come.
2019 Five Soldiers Chardonnay, Rustenberg – 96 pts
Rich, round, and fleshy. Ripe and exotic with apple crumble and mandarins through to oak and spun sugar. A very smart, well-honed creation.
2019 Pinot Noir, Wooing Tree – 95 pts
Aromatic intensity here, with dark cherry, spice and a mocha lift. A complex palate with a bright red fruit style, ripe tannins and appetising finish.
2017 Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, Glenelly – 94 pts
Perfumed currants, blueberry crumble, menthol, lavender. Fabulous length, firm yet silky tannins, brilliant tensions, but needs more time to unfurl.
2020 Steen, Donkiesbaai – 94 pts
Stunning citrus zest, white pepper, beeswax and marshmallow flavours offered in a cloak of enticing, complexing granitic minerality.
2019 The Boxer Shiraz, Mollydooker – 94 pts
Authentic and honest, with rich blackberry, raspberry and cherry, underpinned by tar and olive on the succulent palate. Massively enjoyable.
2017 Seven Flags Pinot Noir, Paul Cluver – 94 pts
A charming balance of floral; violets and roses, fruit; crunchy redcurrant, red cherry, savoury; cigar box, toast, liquorice. A fine effort.
2017 Estate Wine, Rust en Vrede – 94 pts
Charming blueberry and blackberry boiled sweets and attractive vanilla oak spice with a lovely freshness that carries this wine’s finish.
2015 The Jem, Waterford Estate – 94 pts
Savoury and spicy; fireside embers, cedar, cigars, baked plum. Swathes of ripe tannins. Rich but not heavy; impressive.
2020 Noble Late Harvest Riesling, Paul Cluver – 93 pts
Glazed blood orange, sweet lemon marmalade, gingerbread, and buttered warm white toast with melted honey. Plain and simply delicious.
2019 Estate Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon, Rust en Vrede – 93 pts
Flavours of red fruit compote, a touch of dusty earth, and creamy, black mineral tannins. Eye-popping freshness and great ageing potential.
2018 Peter Barlow Cabernet Sauvignon, Rustenberg – 93 pts
A taut, dark, rich wine with hedgerow fruits, graphite and wine gum flavours. Creamy and sleek with grippy tannins.
2019 Galpin Peak Pinot Noir, Bouchard Finlayson – 92 pts
Raspberry yogurt, earthy notes, hints of cedar spice, and dried herbs. Long, with plenty of Cola and brambly fruit complexity.
2017 Proprietor’s Blend, Ernie Els – 92 pts
Big, powerful, and ripe with blackcurrant, cassis, and toast. Fine, with classical depth. A lot more to come from this wine.
2020 Estate Riesling, Paul Cluver – 92 pts
An off-dry style, carried well by the acids, with spicy apple, peach, and citrus flavours and a long apricot finish.
2018 Estate Chardonnay, Paul Cluver – 92 pts
Lovely green apple fruit pastille note melts into white peach and quince notes. A nicely textured palate and long finish.
2020 Walker Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Bouchard Finlayson – 91 pts
Lively and bracing acidity with lots of citrussy, zippy fruit on the palate. Attractive and pure. Lots of intense, primary fruit.
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, The Stellenbosch Reserve – 91 pts
Pronounced cassis, blackcurrant leaf, tea leaf, and dried flowers. All primary and youthful at present, but with the structure to develop.
2020 Village Chardonnay, Paul Cluver – 91 pts
A vibrant and zesty white. The palate is gentle, pithy, with citrus, lemon peel, and a hint of mint. Excellent value.
2019 John X Merriman, Rustenberg – 91 pts
Dark and brooding with mulberries, dark plums, clove, and cedar. Juicy acidity, ripe supple tannins, and good concentration. Lovely persistent finish.
2020 Chardonnay, Rustenberg – 91 pts
Smart, compact, white blossom, white citrus, honeysuckle, apple pie, and a hint of fresh mint. Restrained, mineral and elegant.
2018 Big Easy Red Blend, Ernie Els – 90 pts
Perfumed note of parma violets and blueberries. Concentrated, chiseled palate of exuberant berry fruits with refreshing acidity and fine tannins.
2020 The Doctors’ Rose, Forrest Wines – 90 pts
Bright cranberry, raspberry peach aromas, leading to a creamy palate, light and refreshing, zesty with an almond twist to finish.
2015 Estate Reserve, Glenelly – 90 pts
Deep, inky and dark with earthy, spicy aromatics and hints of licorice, tar, and Provençal herbs. Drinking well now.
2018 Estate Pinot Noir, Paul Cluver – 90 pts
A taut, crunchy wine, with redcurrants and redberry combining with hints of bacon and aniseed underpinned by fine tannin.
2019 Malbec, Rustenberg – 90 pts
Exotic nose of plum and peach tea. Very polished and creamy with lovely, sappy, thick-skinned plums and baking spice intensity.
2020 Sauvignon Blanc, Rustenberg – 90 pts
A bright and fresh palate with grapefruit, hints of blood orange, and tangy acids with a round mouthfeel and long finish.
2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, Rustenberg – 90 pts
Spicy graphite-tinged black fruits meet tilled earth, leather, and notes of cedar and wood spice. Silky and soft, fleshy yet ultra-pure.
Please note that some vintages may not yet be available in the UK.
The August edition of Decanter Magazine features an article on the Adelaide Hills by David Sly. No report on the Adelaide Hills would be complete without a mention of Bird in Hand. He names them one of the region’s top producers of Shiraz, and he has awarded an incredible 97 points to their 2018 Syrah:
2018 Syrah, Bird in Hand – 97 pts
The heady perfume is elegant: blueberry muffin, wild sage, a whiff of liquorice. The flavours are equally seductive: firm black fruits and sharp cherry, laced in strands of leather and tobacco. Whole-bunch ferment and wild-yeast influence is captured in the right measure, showing deft balance of winemaker intervention and vineyard expression.
2013 MAC Shiraz, Bird in Hand – 95 pts
There’s power and opulence here in abundance, but this heady wine tries not to brag too much. It speaks more of fruit concentration and expensive oak cosseting than terroir expression. Cassis, chocolate, mint, ripe cherry and vanilla flavours purr like a big-engine roadster gliding along a smooth, polished, oaky highway. Luxury many can’t afford.
2014 Nest Egg Shiraz, Bird in Hand – 94 pts
A sweet, high-toned and powerful nose of blackberry, mulberry, blossom and marzipan continues on the seriously concentrated, tightly wound palate. Despite big intensity, the flavours glide smoothly through the extended palate. A big body in a well-tailored suit – very dapper!
2019 Nest Egg Chardonnay, Bird in Hand – 91 pts
Judicious influence of new French oak binds the fleshy stonefruit and grapefruit palate together but the structure seems stern and it is a bit hot on the finish. Needs cellaring to soften.