{"title":"South Africa","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"backsberg-pinotage-south-africa-2018","title":"Backsberg Pinotage, Paarl, South Africa, 2019","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/Me4aP6b0cSE\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cimg height=\"242\" width=\"240\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/zoom-into-wine_feature-35_1330d1c9-386c-40b0-a5cc-ffcca02220a5_480x480.png?v=1605577352\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: right;\"\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFather and son team Michael and Simon Back operate one of the oldest and most reputed wineries in the Simonsberg area. While the estate's history dates back to 1916 when it became the first winery in South Africa to open a public tasting room, Backsberg has recently become internationally acclaimed for its efforts to make environmentally sustainable wines. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBacksberg is South Africa's first carbon neutral winery and is engaged in a number of projects to reduce its environmental impact. The Tread Lightly range of wines uses innovative PET packaging to reduce packaging weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBacksberg's winemaking philosophy is rooted in \"the simple pleasures:\" drinkable and personable wines for any occasion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVineyards bakery Berger found on the slopes of the impressive mountain Simon, between Paarl and Stellenbosch (South Africa). They have a total area of about 110 hectares, with more vineyards in two other areas. The region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, with sunny summer days and cold winter periods. The plant consists of eroded granite, clay loam. For this winery is the key to producing quality grapes that the word \"balance\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Pinotage\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaarl (Coastal Region, South Africa)\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRipe mulberry and sweet strawberry flavours are complimented by subtle undertones \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eof dried herbs. This Pinotage has a juicy mouth-feel with supple, tannins. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCheck out our ZOOM with the winemaker in Jan 2021 - at www.ZOOMintowine.com \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cimg height=\"328\" width=\"556\" alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/a4ffdbfa28cb353ce6106caf380ea9c5b44d4af5.jpg-683x402_480x480.jpg?v=1596053970\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wanderlust","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51608480809265,"sku":null,"price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/backsberg_216ee4d1-b54b-4405-ba6b-445ee065ad40.png?v=1759441464"},{"product_id":"glenelly-estate-reserve-chardonnay-stellenbosch-south-africa-2019","title":"Glenelly Estate, Reserve Chardonnay, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/winecloudinc.com\/pages\/stars-of-south-africa\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/SouthAfrica-01.jpg?v=1627084191\" width=\"651\" height=\"217\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener noreferrer\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/5BEK5leC-kk\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eCLICK HERE TO WATCH THE TASTING!\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLocated on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg, Glenelly is owned by May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, Bordeaux doyenne and former owner of Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStruck by the tremendous potential of South Africa's terroir and the beauty of the country, May-Eliane de Lencquesaing decided to embark on a French adventure on African soil. She purchased Glenelly in 2003, and subsequently planted 66 of the property's 128 hectares to vineyards. The first estate-grown fruit came on line in 2007, and Glenelly's state-of-the-art winery building was completed in 2009. The wines are fermented naturally and made with as little intervention as possible, seeking to achieve the perfect balance of French style and South African terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMay-Eliane de Lencquesaing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStellenbosch, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe Estate Reserve Chardonnay displays a wonderful bright crisp colour, with vibrant citrus, lime zest and hints of butterscotch on the nose. The palate is lush and the creamy texture is underpinned with beautiful mineral notes of toasted almond and vanilla. The finish is fresh with great minerality and with a nervous energy about it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe palate is well balanced with tropical notes of pineapple \u003cspan\u003eand passion fruit on the entry, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003efine acidity and a rounded, lightly honeyed finish. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":39479638687786,"sku":"","price":23.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/products\/Glenelly-Estate-Reserve-Chardonnay-Stellenbosch-South-africa-2019.jpg?v=1762527777"},{"product_id":"hamilton-russell-chardonnay-south-africa-2022","title":"Hamilton Russell, Chardonnay, South Africa, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eFounded by Anthony Hamilton Russell in 1994, Southern Right’s aim is to produce a serious, age-worthy Pinotage (South Africa’s unique red grape variety) combining a distinct South African fruit and flavor expression with classic styling and refinement. In 2005, a stunningly beautiful 1,125 acre property on the western border of Hamilton Russell Vineyards was purchased as a long-term home for Southern Right, and in 2009, a 350 ton “Overberg”-style cellar, was completed on the property just in time for the 2009 harvest. Today the winery produces a Pinotage and a Sauvignon Blanc. The wines are named after the rare Southern Right whales, which frequent the cool South Atlantic Walker Bay, two miles from the vineyards. With each bottle sold, Southern Right makes a contribution to their conservation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eChardonnay\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSouth Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eA tight, mineral wine with classic Hamilton Russell Vineyards length and complexity. Prominent pear and lime fruit aromas and flavors are brought beautifully into focus by a tight line of bright natural acid and a long, dry minerality. An elegant, yet textured and intense wine with a strong personality of both place and vintage.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis has a lovely nose of cedar, grapefruit, lemon rind, apricot stones and tarragon. Salted butter. It's medium- to full-bodied, deliciously saline and creamy, with a long and elegant finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Regal Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47963410039089,"sku":null,"price":49.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/HamiltonRussell_Chardonnay_SouthAfrica_2022.jpg?v=1757357037"},{"product_id":"craven-cinsault-stellenbosch-south-africa-2022","title":"Craven, Cinsault, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2023","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003eOur story begins back in 2007 while we were both 'dragging hose' in Sonoma, California, for the harvest season. A chance meeting at the Flamingo Hotel, between an Aussie and a South African, has eventually turned into Craven Wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-element_type=\"column\" data-id=\"819ac61\" class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-819ac61\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"aux_modern_heading.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"6ef0a19\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-6ef0a19 aux-appear-watch-animation aux-fade-in-right-1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-aux_modern_heading aux-animated aux-animated-once\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"aux-widget-modern-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-widget-inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-modern-heading-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAfter both having taken to the text books at our respective universities, we decided to hit the road, see lots of things, work in lots of places and try and learn as much as possible from this massive wine world. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-element_type=\"column\" data-id=\"78dfb54\" class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-78dfb54\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"aux_modern_heading.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"47cf898\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-47cf898 aux-appear-watch-animation aux-fade-in-right-1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-aux_modern_heading aux-animated aux-animated-once\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"aux-widget-modern-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-widget-inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-modern-heading-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince meeting we have both been on a journey to discover how we could create something special that resonates with our beliefs and our pure love of wine. Luckily enough, we had very similar ideas. So back in 2011 we moved to Stellenbosch, South Africa, a place we both have an affinity for. Stellenbosch has such an amazing array of sites and terroir, and this landscape is perfect for what we want to do. Which is to make site-specific, honest wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-element_type=\"column\" data-id=\"47b14c6\" class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-47b14c6\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"aux_modern_heading.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"53cb635\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-53cb635 aux-appear-watch-animation aux-fade-in-right-1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-aux_modern_heading aux-animated aux-animated-once\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"aux-widget-modern-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-widget-inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-modern-heading-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn terms of 'winemaking' we like to keep things as simple as possible. To try and achieve the wines we want to make, we feel the best methods are being hands off, while being very hands on. In other words, we pay serious attention to the wine but we do not manipulate the wine. We believe the best way to express site and fruit is to show just that. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe do not use cultured yeasts, enzymes, fining agents, etc. throughout the winemaking process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-element_type=\"column\" data-id=\"c8b26cf\" class=\"aux-parallax-section elementor-column elementor-col-33 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-c8b26cf\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-widget_type=\"aux_modern_heading.default\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-id=\"e6f3cdf\" class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-e6f3cdf aux-appear-watch-animation aux-fade-in-right-1 elementor-widget elementor-widget-aux_modern_heading aux-animated aux-animated-once\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"elementor-widget-container\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"aux-widget-modern-heading\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-widget-inner\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"aux-modern-heading-description\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe only use older oak and try our best to find larger format barrels. We also work with concrete fermenters with certain wines, as we feel this allows the more delicate varieties to maintain their purity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe allow our wines to stabilise naturally, if they so want to. Essentially, a small amount of SO2 is the only thing added to our wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCinsault\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eStellenbosch, South Africa\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCherry, strawberries, cream, red + purple flowers, rocky minerality. Palate is fresh with bramble, boysenberry, bright red cherry, hints of eucalyptus. We chose this bright beauty for the summer months, due to its light bodied character and thirst quenching power. Fermented and aged in concrete, this vinification process of utilizing concrete preserves the essence of the organic 34+ year old bush vines resting 3 miles from the ocean in the ‘Rustenhof' vineyard. Craven Wines is a husband-and-wife team, Mick (from Australia) and Jeanine (from South Africa) met during harvest in Sonoma then returned to South Africa to create site-specific wine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 Cinsault comes from a parcel in the Rustenhof farm shared with Scions of Sinai. This was destemmed and spent eight to ten days on the skins. It has a pretty nose that’s quite energetic and delineated, expressing white-tipped strawberry, maraschino cherry and just a hint of candy floss. The palate is very well balanced with a Grenache-like flashiness on the mid-palate and fine acidity. Crisp, focused and linear in style, it concludes with a peppery finish. Very fine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Martines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50012286714161,"sku":null,"price":23.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Craven_Cinsault_Stellenbosch_South_Africa_2023.jpg?v=1770986511"},{"product_id":"kanonkop-pinotage-stellenbosch-south-africa-2022","title":"Kanonkop Estate, Pinotage, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2022","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eWith a reputation for producing some of the Cape’s finest red wines, the heralded Kanonkop Estate is often referred to as a South African \"First Growth.\" The fourth generation family farm, presently run by brothers Johann and Paul Krige, has been owned and operated by the Sauer-Krige family since the early 1930s. The name Kanonkop is derived from a \"kopje\" (small hill) on the property, from which a cannon was fired in the 17th century to announce the arrival of the Dutch East India Company’s trading ships at Table Bay.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKanonkop boasts some of the Cape’s first commercially planted Pinotage vines, with an average age of over 50 years. Respecting tradition while embracing the future, Kanonkop fuses age-old wine-making techniques with state-of-the art technology. All of the estate’s grapes are handpicked and sorted. The wines are vinified in open concrete fermenters, using manual punchdowns, and are subsequently aged in French Nevers oak barrels.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKanonkop continues its long history of excellence under Abrie Beeslaar, winemaker at the estate since 2002. In addition to garnering regular 90+ ratings for his bottlings in such publications as Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, Beeslaar was crowned the 2008 International Winemaker of the Year at the International Wine and Spirits Competition in London, where Kanonkop also received the Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande trophy for the best blended red wine with its Paul Sauer 2003 and the Dave Hughes Trophy for Best South African Producer. In addition, Kanonkop was named \"Winery of the Year\" and its Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 earned \"Wine of the Year\" in the 2009 edition of John Platter’s South African Wine Guide – widely recognized as the most authoritative and comprehensive guide on the world of South African wine. Kanonkop Wine Estate was also named the \"Most Admired Wine Brand in South Africa\" and listed at #32 on the “Most Admired Wine Brands in the World\" by #DrinksInternational in 2020.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAbrie Beeslaar\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Pinotage\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eStellenbosch, South Africa\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOpaque purple red colour. Bold plums, blackberries, mulberries, rich vanilla, layers of smoke, and roasted nut the nose. Followed by a palate packed with plums, cherries, black figs, pomegranate, dark chocolate, blackberries and spicy oak, The beautifully integrated plush, creamy tannins teams with satisfying acidity resulting in a wonderfully balanced wine with and a long finish, promising a great maturation potential. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePairs well with pizza, pasta, barbequed meat, venison stew, beef or lamb burgers, and Thai cuisine.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Tim Atkin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMade by a man who understands Pinotage better than anyone, Abrie Beeslaar’s red is good to drink now but will also develop in bottle. Comfortably handling its 80% new wood, it has notes of Asian spices and toast, succulent blackberry and cherry fruit, refreshing acidity and a stony, mineral core. 2024-30\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cape Classics","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50447727558961,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Kanonkop_Estate_Pinotage_Stellenbosch_South_Africa_2022_8b18910b-9f51-40c1-8fd1-69969df2327f.jpg?v=1741713891"},{"product_id":"glenelly-estate-the-glass-collection-cabernet-sauvignon-stellenbosch-south-africa-2018","title":"Glenelly Estate, 'Glass Collection', Cabernet Sauvignon, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLocated on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg, Glenelly is owned by May-Eliane de Lencquesaing, Bordeaux doyenne and former owner of Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStruck by the tremendous potential of South Africa's terroir and the beauty of the country, Mme de Lencquesaing decided to embark on a French adventure on African soil. She purchased Glenelly in 2003, and subsequently planted 66 of the property's 128 hectares to vineyards. The first estate-grown fruit came on line in 2007, and Glenelly's state-of-the-art winery building was completed in 2009. The wines are fermented naturally and made with as little intervention as possible, seeking to achieve the perfect balance of French style and South African terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOrganic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMay-Eliane de Lencquesaing\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Cabernet Sauvignon\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStellenbosch, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn 2003, at the youthful age of 78, May-Elaine de Lenquesaing bought a property on the lower slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain and begin renovating the property of what was to become Glenelly Estate. What makes this story so compelling is that she was the previous owner of one of Bordeaux’s great wines estates, Chateau Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande.   Almost two decades later and the end results have been impressive and her vision has started to manifest itself beautifully. One of the better ways to get a feel for what an estate can offer is through its entry level wines. In this case the Glass Collection series, particularly with the Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon, is a phenomenal effort. The just released 2018 Glenelly Glass Collection Cabernet Sauvignon is another great example of why Stellenbosch is now recognized as one of the best places on the planet for producing Cabernet and more importantly, also some of the best valued Cabernet in the world.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Tim Atkin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eYou’d expect a winery created by a former second growth Bordeaux chateau owner to be good at making Cabernet Sauvignon, even at this comparatively inexpensive price, and you’d be right. Fresh, elegant and perfumed, with cassis and lead pencil notes, graceful tannins and stylish 15% new wood. 2022-2016\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e90 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThere's a lovely herbal character upfront on the nose of this wine, expressed in waves of black currant leaf, fresh cigar tobacco and licorice root. That earthy impression is supported by ample tones of cassis, blackberry and plum at the core. The palate is medium in weight but defined in structure, with moderately gripping tannins and a lengthy, fruit skin-fueled finish.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Size: 750 ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"RNDC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50459215593777,"sku":null,"price":19.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Glenelly_Estate__The_Glass_Collection__Cabernet_Sauvignon_Stellenbosch_South_Africa_2018.jpg?v=1734380049"},{"product_id":"backsberg-estate-gravel-road-chenin-blanc-south-africa-2022","title":"Backsberg Estate, Gravel Road, Chenin Blanc, South Africa, 2022","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eFather and son team Michael and Simon Back operate one of the oldest and most reputed wineries in the Simonsberg area. While the estate's history dates back to 1916 when it became the first winery in South Africa to open a public tasting room, Backsberg has recently become internationally acclaimed for its efforts to make environmentally sustainable wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBacksberg is South Africa's first carbon neutral winery and is engaged in a number of projects to reduce its environmental impact. The Tread Lightly range of wines uses innovative PET packaging to reduce packaging weight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBacksberg's winemaking philosophy is rooted in \"the simple pleasures:\" drinkable and personable wines for any occasion.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVineyards bakery Berger found on the slopes of the impressive mountain Simon, between Paarl and Stellenbosch (South Africa). They have a total area of about 110 hectares, with more vineyards in two other areas. The region is characterized by a Mediterranean climate, with sunny summer days and cold winter periods. The plant consists of eroded granite, clay loam. For this winery is the key to producing quality grapes that the word \"balance\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Chenin Blanc \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ePaarl (Coastal Region, South Africa) \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe juicy peach, citrus blossom and mango aromas are perfectly balanced by a refreshing acidity.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChenin Blanc is exceptionally versatile. It pairs well with salads, vegetables, fish and chicken. Hints of sweetness and a slightly fuller body ensure this wine complements both spicy and creamier dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wanderlust","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":50754520940849,"sku":null,"price":13.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Backsberg_Estate_Gravel_Road_Chenin_Blanc_South_Africa_2022.jpg?v=1740777305"},{"product_id":"klein-constantia-vin-de-constance-blanc-constantia-south-africa-2019","title":"Klein Constantia, Vin de Constance Blanc, Constantia, South Africa, 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOur estate was originally part of Simon van der Stel’s vast Constantia estate, granted in 1685. It then formed part of Groot Constantia until 1823, when the land was divided between the brothers Jacob Pieter and Johan Gerhard Cloete. The latter took ownership of the upper reaches, situated on the eastern slopes and foothills of the Constantiaberg, where there were already over 33,000 vines planted. He named this magnificent piece of land Klein Constantia.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFacing mostly south to east, and reaching up from 70 to 343 metres above sea level, our higher slopes are some of the coldest in the Cape, thanks to fewer sunlight hours and a constant breeze off the ocean, just 10 kilometres away.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCooler temperatures result in an increase in concentration and flavour while preserving the acidity and pH of our white varieties, most especially Sauvignon Blanc. They also create the ideal growing conditions for Muscat de Frontignan, used to make our natural sweet dessert wine, Vin de Constance. As the berries are able to ripen fully before raisining begins, they are able to produce raisined fruit with remarkable intensity of flavour as well as natural acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOur soils originate from granite formed up to 600 million years ago and can be divided mainly between deep fertile Oakleaf on the lower slopes and drier Glenrosa with a saprolite subsoil higher up. This well-drained, fertile, decomposed granite with high clay content ensures good water retention during the long, dry summers of the Cape, when enough water slowly drains back into the vineyards to ensure an effective leaf canopy and proper ripening of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe unique location, climate and soils of our estate call for the making of terroir-driven wines, and it is to this principle that we are deeply committed. Simple winemaking techniques are used to extract the best from grapes grown in expertly nurtured vineyards to make consistently excellent wines that express elegance, minerality and balance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMatthew Day\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e100% Muscat de Frontignan\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eConstantia, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eBright light gold in colour. A delicately perfumed yet elevated nose with flavours of white peach, citrus blossom and orange zest. There is an intriguing creaminess on the nose followed by nutmeg and lemon curd. The palate abounds with complex flavours of oak spice, ginger and bright fruit. A delicate balance between sugar and acidity creating a seemingly dryer style of Vin de Constance. The wine concludes with a long and evolving finish with texture and a delicate spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e98 Points - Decanter\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2019 vintage was a little unpredictable, with 26 passes in the vineyard between late February and late April to determine optimal ripeness. Each pass was separately vinified, some for zing, others for a more raisin-like profile, blended together late during fermentation for balance, the skill of Matt Day’s guidance is allowing the fermentation to stop naturally through this meticulous process. Aged for 15 months in 50% new French and Hungarian oak followed by a further 15 months larger format foudres the result secures Matt’s place in winemaking history as a youthful legend with another near perfect release of this iconic sweet wine. Glimmering gold in the glass it’s a gorgeous whirl of apricot, orange blossom, hay and lemon curd. Lightly syrupy texture with an uptick of gingery orange zest, there’s a lengthy spiciness to the accomplished finish which soars and surges all at once. For Muscat de Frontignan to feel this elegant and sippable so young is dreamy. If you’ve the patience to cellar it, expect great things. Otherwise this is the ultimate teatime wine to pour right now. (OS)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBright, medium to deep gold hue, showing focused and pure aromas of honeysuckle, fresh vanilla, lemon tart, dried mango, ginger and a hint of saffron. Certainly quite sweet, but not unctuous, with the natural, effortless acidity managing to balance the lushness. Intense, yet scented and naturally expressive. Persistent finish. You crave for a second glass if you drink it now, but you can also hold it for a decade in your cellar.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2019 Vin de Constance is matured for 18 months in 500-liter Hungarian and French oak barrels, 50% new, followed by another 18 months in oak foudres. The growing season saw more sunlight hours than previous vintages (2,998 compared to 2,588 in 2018 for example). It has an understated nose, almost Sauternes-like even if it does not contain an ounce of botrytis. Subtle nutty aromas percolate through the wild honey and quince scents, wax resin and lanolin. The palate is medium-bodied and very pure. Disarmingly fine acidity, it is slightly Germanic towards the finish. with a hint of lemongrass lingering on the aftertaste. This is a superb Vin de Constance under the tenure of Matt Day that is a step closer to what you might confusingly call a non-sweet dessert wine. (NM)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e96 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFloral, focused and sweet, the 2019 Vin de Constance Natural Sweet Wine bursts out of the glass with layers of picturesque sweet citrus and stone fruit purée. The palate possesses a brilliant balance between succulent, sweet fruit flavors and layers of complexity that sway with focus and finesse, power and prestige. Gobs of sweet citrus and white peach are on display with attractive, healthy fruit, showing an impeccable balance between residual sugar and energetic acidity. This beauty will last for decades and has me dreaming of aged soft blue cheeses.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - Wine Independent\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2019 Vin De Constance is made from 100% Muscat de Frontignan. Pale gold color, it is SO fragrant, with floral notes of roses and lavender over a core of lychees, mango, and guava notes plus suggestions of musk melon and spice cake. SO pure, on the palate, it is superbly rich and sweet with a fantastic backbone of acidity, oily, long, pure and intense. This is like liquid Turkish delight!\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Duclot","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51443210912049,"sku":null,"price":104.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Klein_Constantia_Vin_de_Constance_Constantia_South_Africa_2019.jpg?v=1749060855"},{"product_id":"mullineux-family-wines-straw-wine-swartland-south-africa-2024-375ml","title":"Mullineux Family Wines, Straw Wine, Swartland, South Africa, 2024 (375mL)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eWe are a small, highly focused Family winery based in the village of Riebeek Kasteel producing a select Family of hand-crafted wines from the granite and shale based terroirs of the Swartland Region of South Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Swartland is a beautiful and wild place. The landscape is a series of rolling hills, with a few significant outcrops of rock that form the Paardeberg, Riebeek Kasteel and Piketberg Mountains. It is not an easy place to establish vines, and is a region that has as much of an influence on the vineyards and people who farm there as the people have on the land itself. This brings to mind what film director David von Ancken has to say about the old American West: \"The primal, universal power of the landscape strips away everything but the truth of men's souls.\" In much the same way, we feel the Swartland landscape bares the souls of grape vines, and in those varieties that can take the ruggedness, true personality of site is revealed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVegan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAndrea and Chris Mullineux\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eChenin Blanc\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eSwartland, South Africa\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThe 2024 Mullineux Straw Wine has a beautiful luminous golden colour. The exceptionally well-balanced acidity and attractive viscosity of this vin de paille-style wine is highlighted on the palate. Grown in the ancient granite soils of the Paardeberg, it has a very distinct flavour profile reminding one of Mebos, with an intense mouthfeel like that of silky lemon meringue pie. The extraordinarily fresh and lingering finish, culminating from the old vines of the Swartland, which also allow dappled sunlight to penetrate the canopies of the bush-vines and develop the stone fruit aromas of this wine. Best served chilled at 8 to 10 °C with savoury-lead or sweet desserts or a combination of hard cheeses. This is a vegan friendly wine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e97 Points - Vinous \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2024 Straw Wine comes from deep, decomposed granite soils in Paardeberg that offer the highest natural malic acid to counter the concentration. The fruit is dried off the vine for four weeks, with ten months' fermentation before it naturally comes to a halt. It has extraordinarily pure acacia honey, orange pith and tangerine scents that are beautifully defined. The palate has stunning delineation, a razor-sharp line of acidity and ample weight, but it is not cloying in any way. The finish feels quite stem ginger, leaving the mouth tingling afterwards. Brilliant. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHoney, golden raisins, figs, candied oranges, dried pineapples and lemonade on the nose of this concentrated dessert wine. So much sweet, dried-fruit goodness packed in, beautifully balanced by sharp acidity. Long and intense. From chenin blanc grapes grown on granite soil, dried for four weeks in the shade. Drink or hold.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"utf-8\"\u003e \u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e 375ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Skurnik","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52386564112689,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Mullineux_Family_Wines_Straw_Wine_Swartland_South_Africa_2024_375mL.jpg?v=1768572610"},{"product_id":"hamilton-russell-pinot-noir-hemel-en-aarde-valley-south-africa-2022","title":"Hamilton Russell, Pinot Noir, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, South Africa, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFounded by Anthony Hamilton Russell in 1994, Southern Right’s aim is to produce a serious, age-worthy Pinotage (South Africa’s unique red grape variety) combining a distinct South African fruit and flavor expression with classic styling and refinement. In 2005, a stunningly beautiful 1,125 acre property on the western border of Hamilton Russell Vineyards was purchased as a long-term home for Southern Right, and in 2009, a 350 ton “Overberg”-style cellar, was completed on the property just in time for the 2009 harvest. Today the winery produces a Pinotage and a Sauvignon Blanc. The wines are named after the rare Southern Right whales, which frequent the cool South Atlantic Walker Bay, two miles from the vineyards. With each bottle sold, Southern Right makes a contribution to their conservation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEmul Ross\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePinot Noir\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWalker Bay, South Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eOur low-vigour, stony, clay-rich soil, cool maritime mesoclimate, naturally tiny yields of well under 35 hl\/ha and our philosophy of expressing our terroir in our wines – give rise to a certain tightness, tannin line and elevated length to balance the richness and generosity of our Pinot noir. Our Pinot noir is not overtly fruity, soft and \"sweet\" and it generally shows hints of that alluring savoury \"primal\" character along with a dark, spicy, complex primary fruit perfume.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Owen Bargreen\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe brilliant 2022 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir is a highly nuanced, stunning rendition of this wine winemaker Emul Ross. Sourced from their estate vineyards in Hemel-En-Aarde, this offers kumquat zest and black truffle crudo on the nose alongside shades of pomegranate seed and damp earth. The palate is laden with minerality, showing a smooth mouthfeel and glorious sense of length. Enjoy this stunner now and over the next fifteen years. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Falstaff\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCherry red, unfiltered. Herbal-spicy even more than fruity, with thyme and mint. Also sweet cherry. In the mouth, the wine is classically constructed, with fine-grained tannins in medium-high to high quantities, lots of juice and a lively acid backbone and a clear chalky-mineral finish. A fine elegance! \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003ePopping out of the glass with succulent dark red cherries and fresh potpourri essence, the 2022 Pinot Noir bursts with notes of wild herbs and turned earth. Medium-bodied, the palate offers flavors of black raspberry with a firm-gripping tannic edge. It shows seductive florals with spicy flavors and ends with a food-friendly finish.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis is a sleek pinot with notes of cloves, cranberries, thyme and raw mushrooms. Hints of iron. Medium-bodied, savory and nicely balanced, with fine-grained tannins.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Enthusiast\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe Hamilton Russell winery is a pioneer in the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley and offers an elegant and spicy Pinot Noir. The nose opens with white pepper and nutmeg. An energized palate and tight tannins provide a good frame for strawberries, cherries and subtle dried herbs. Hints of cardamom appear in the aftertaste.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e91 Points - Wine Spectator\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eDetailed notes of plum skin, mulberry, paprika, eucalyptus and dried thyme are layered with fine, crisp tannins in this elegant red. Light- to medium-bodied and focused, with a subtle, minerally finish of smoke and tar accents. Drink now through 2029. 2,304 cases made.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Regal Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52420623335729,"sku":null,"price":58.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Hamilton_Russell_Pinot_Noir_Hemel-en-Aarde_Valley_South_Africa_2022.jpg?v=1769173419"},{"product_id":"hamilton-russell-southern-right-sauvignon-blanc-south-africa-2024","title":"Hamilton Russell, 'Southern Right' Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa, 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOne of the most southerly wine Estates in Africa, this Pinot noir and Chardonnay specialist pioneered viticulture in the beautiful, cool, maritime, Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation behind the old fishing village of Hermanus. The Estate specialises in producing highly individual, terroir driven Pinot noir and Chardonnay, which are widely regarded as the best in South Africa and among the finest in the New World.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFounder, Tim Hamilton Russell, purchased the undeveloped 170 hectare property in 1975, after an exhaustive search for the most southerly site on which to make South Africa’s top cool climate wines from a selection of noble varieties.     \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHis son, Anthony Hamilton Russell, who took over in 1991 (finally buying the business in 1994), narrowed the range to Pinot noir and Chardonnay only and registered Hamilton Russell Vineyards as an Estate, committing to work only with grapes from their terroir.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAnthony with his wife Olive, winemaker Emul Ross and viticulturist Johan Montgomery are completely dedicated to expressing the personality of the Hamilton Russell Vineyards terroir in their wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTiny yields and intense worldwide demand keep the elegant, highly individual, Estate grown Pinot noir and Chardonnay in very short supply.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cspan\u003eClick \u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/youtu.be\/g8oBOkXJhoQ\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ehere\u003c\/a\u003e to watch our Youtube video with the winemaker!\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eEmul Ross\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSauvignon Blanc\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSouth Africa\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMade in a way ensuring the personality of site and soil is not over-ridden by the forceful character of the variety, this wine exhibits the typical Southern Right balance of tight \"Old World\" minerality and length with hints of \"New World” texture and body. The 2024 is a wine that favours origin expressive individuality, minerality and palate complexity ahead of simple, pungent varietal aroma. A significant percentage of fruit from iron and clay-rich soil (46%) has added a textural and structural component and additional overall complexity to this wine. Granitic soils (28%) have added openness and perfume, while sandstone soils have contributed their typical bright, tensile character and a marked, saline minerality. This is Sauvignon blanc as fine wine, not Sauvignon blanc as simply a varietal expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Tasting Panel\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThis winery is named for the rare southern right whales that frequent Walker Bay in May and December, to whose conservation it contributes. The vineyards are close to the Atlantic Ocean, and that shows in this wine's salty, seashell-like tonality. It expresses a delicate style through subtle notes of flint, white flowers, and lemon sorbet.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e90 Points - Vinous\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2024 Sauvignon Blanc comes from the clayey Cape Coast, plus granitic soils in Elgin, matured 8% in used oak and the rest in stainless steel. It has a well-defined bouquet with grapefruit, nettle, dandelion and subtle earthy scents. The palate is well balanced, crisp and linear, with fine delineation. Quite an elegant Sauvignon Blanc, it boasts a precise, sapid finish that urges you back for more. This is very well made and very delicious.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Regal Wine Co","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52420654432561,"sku":null,"price":17.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Hamilton_Russell_Southern_Right_Sauvignon_Blanc_South_Africa_2024.jpg?v=1769174328"},{"product_id":"ken-forrester-the-fmc-chenin-blanc-stellenbosch-south-africa-2023","title":"Ken Forrester, The FMC Chenin Blanc, Stellenbosch, South Africa, 2023","description":"\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.learnaboutwine.com\/pages\/stars-of-white-wine\" target=\"_blank\"\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eKen Forrester is widely considered one of the country's leading experts on Chenin Blanc and 'The FMC' is his top cuvée. The initials stand for '\u003c\/span\u003e\u003ci\u003eForrester, Meinert, Chenin\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cspan\u003e the 'M' referring to Ken's long time friend and collaborator Martin Meinert with whom this wine was created. Fermented and aged for 12 months in oak barrels this is a wonderfully rich and layered wine with ripe stone and tropical fruit flavours, dried apricot, vanilla, honey and spice. The several levels of complexity are well balanced and nicely restrained in style and make a wine well worthy of it's exalted reputation.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSituated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain, in the heart of South Africa's most famous wine region Stellenbosch, their vineyards are commonly referred to as the Home of Chenin Blanc and other premium award-winning wines.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOver the years their range of top quality wines have received massive national and international acclaim with literally hundreds of awards and accolades. Their wines are broadly available in reputable restaurants and exported around the globe. Ken Forrester's philosophy has always been to create a range of handcrafted, individually made wines that suitably complement a wide variety of food styles and provide excellent value.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"p1\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSustainable.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eKen Forrester\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Chenin Blanc \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eStellenbosch, South Africa\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFrom Ken Forrester, the ‘King of Chenin’, the flagship FMC is rich, seductive and utterly sophisticated. Layer upon layer of pineapple, candied lemon, dried apricot, ginger and vanilla, with touches of honey, spice and crème brûlée; effortlessly supported by gentle oak and lovely freshness. This wine is still showing the exuberance and nerviness of youth, and will develop and blossom over the next 4-5 years.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eA ripe, inviting and delicious chenin blanc that has aromas and flavors of honey, apricots, papayas, candied ginger and chamomile. It’s full-bodied, creamy and honeyed, with abounding yellow and tropical fruit, plus a touch of cloves on a long finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Vinous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2023 The FMC is pure Chenin Blanc that was picked via 23 passes through the vineyard. It underwent a natural ferment and aged in 400-liter barrels for 12 months, 40% new. Always one of Forrester's gems, this has a wonderful bouquet of orchard fruit, verbena and hints of honeysuckle. The palate is fresh and vibrant on the entry, with touches of candied orange peel, white peach and apricot all very well defined and persistent through the elegant finish. Superb.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Spectator\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA rich yet racy version, with vivid acidity creating a linear feel up front but then carrying the detailed core of poached quince, white peach, pickled ginger, lemon curd and orange blossoms, which expands on the palate. An overtone of toasted brioche, almond biscotti and vanilla-infused pastry cream is a subtle thread winding through the fruit core and echoing on the long, lush finish. Chenin Blanc.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Classic Wines","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":53661465968945,"sku":null,"price":82.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Ken_Forrester_The_FMC_Chenin_Blanc_Stellenbosch_South_Africa_2023.jpg?v=1775582646"}],"url":"https:\/\/marchantofwine.com\/collections\/south-africa.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}