2020 Anthonij Rupert 'Optima'
Regular price £25.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
Nose
Opulent but genteel and tempting violet-tinged soft black fruit abundance on the nose.
Palate
The palate is all about texture: silky, velvety, smooth and simultaneously plush. Ripe plums, hedgerow fruit, cocoa, cedar and spice, cigar box flavours make for an enveloping mouthful. Complex, elegant and beautifully integrated, the oak is seamlessly balanced with the fruit. Lingering & harmonious with not a single element out of place.
Each component was aged separately and then matured in 225L French oak barrels for 20 months with only 30% first fill barrels being used.
In the Vineyard
The grapes selected for the Anthonij Rupert Optima, comes from our L’Ormarins Estate in Franschhoek and Rooderust farm in Darling. Specific sites, each with their own unique soil type and climatic conditions, were identified for the ideal grape selection, which make up unique components of the final blend in Optima. With lower rainfall bringing challenging conditions, the total wine grape production was lower than 2015. With drier weather conditions, the vineyards produced smaller healthy berries with high flavour concentration and good colour.
In the Cellar
An Optical sorting machine was used to ensure that only the best quality grapes are used. Wine was fermented dry on the skins and underwent extended post-fermentation maceration. This ensures deep colour and a good tannin structure enhancing the maturation potential in the wine. Malolactic barrel fermentation completed before the wine was racked off the lees.
History
Anthonij Rupert Wyne was founded on the farm, L`Ormarins in Franschhoek. Originally owned by the late Anthonij Rupert, who passed away in 2001, the farm was eventually taken over by his brother Johann Rupert in 2003 and the brand named after him. It was Johann Rupert who constructed a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, catapulting the farm into a prestigious wine estate and the beginnings of what is now a sprawling enterprise.
The focus is on terroir specific wines and therefore it would seem obvious that the brand is made up of an impressive portfolio of farms representing the best in grape producing locations. The portfolio is made up of L`Ormarins situated in Franschhoek, Rooderust in Darling, Riebeeksrivier in the Swartland and Altima in isolated Elandskloof. Individually each site offers optimum varietal specific growing conditions, allowing Anthonij Rupert Wyne to adhere to the requirements of their different brands.
Specifications
Year | 2020 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 40% Cabernet Franc, 35% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.9 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | 10 years + |
Food Matching | Fillet with a mustard & brandy sauce. Delicious with hard cheeses, beef, lamb & vegetables. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Franschhoek |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2019 De Toren Fusion V
Regular price £42.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%The iconic Left Bank-based blend from De Toren Fusion V is meticulously crafted from Bordeaux’s ‘Noble Five’ varietals and, with its complex flavours of liquorice, black cherry, cedar and dark berries, it offers a stylish departure for sophisticated oenophilic tastes. Soft as spun silk, with a lingering hint of sweet fruit on the back palate, this is a wine that will only improve with age.
Tim Atken - UK (95 Points)
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, a bouquet of ripe sweet red cherries, blueberries, sweet spice, and subtle nuances of oak prevail, accentuating the fruit. Seamlessly integrated and immensely elegant.
Palate
The taste profile of Fusion V 2019 is vibrant and moderately full bodied. Fine-grained, yet polished tannins are present in this wine. The red cherry bouquet is unmistakable, leaving the 2019 vintage creamy, layered and delightfully well-balanced for its age.
Producer
De Toren proprietors Emil and Sonette den Dulk left Johannesburg in 1991 to establish their vineyards in the Polkadraai Hills of Stellenbosch. Situated on southern-facing slopes overlooking False Bay De Toren enjoys the cooling effect of constant ocean breezes. Taking a holistic approach to keeping vineyard soils healthy and balanced viticulturalist Ernest Manuel employs sustainable farming practices throughout the property. Infrared Aerial Imaging is used extensively in order to monitor ripeness in various vineyard blocks and determine optimal picking times although actual harvesting and production are done almost entirely by hand. The winery is operated on gravity flow principles; a 4000 liter pressure tank in an elevator shaft (the Tower from which the winery takes its name) is cleverly used to exploit gravity in transporting wine between tanks and barrels without the use of mechanical pumps. As a result of De Toren’s innovative minimal intervention production methods their wines were among the first South African bottlings to qualify for IP (Integrated Production) certification by the Wine and Spirit Board.
The Den Dulks and winemaker Albie Koch seem to have found the key to success with their simple winemaking philosophy: gentle handling no pumps and minimum manipulation. Armed with this winning formula the boutique farm has quickly risen to the ranks of South Africa’s winemaking elite with their duo of dazzling stylish and complex five-varietal Bordeaux blends: the flagship Fusion V (which debuted in the 1999 vintage and has been hailed by Wine Spectator as a consistently polished outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon-based blend) and the Merlot-based Z introduced with the 2004 vintage.
Barrel Maturation
Aged in a climatized barrel/ maturation room (16 degrees Celsius at 80% humidity) for 12 months in approximately 50% new and 50% second fill, 225 Litre Oak barrels. French Oak is predominantly used during maturation, with a portion of the Malbec receiving the benefit of American Oak.
Accolades
- Tim Atken - UK (95 Points)
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml (also available in a Magnum Gift Pack) |
Cultivar | Cabernet Sauvignon 56.9%, Malbec 14.4%, Cabernet Franc 9.6%, Merlot 14.4%, Petit Verdot 4.7% |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14.48% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 11 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Cellaring Potential | If stored in optimal conditions, this wine should last up to 20 years plus. |
Food Matches |
With nuanced and complexed flavours, our renowned De Toren Fusion V wine pairs exceptionally well with perfectly tender grilled or roast lamb, with garlic, rosemary and a hint of honey lemon. For optimum enjoyment, decant at least one hour before consumption. It is recommended to serve this wine at optimal temperature (15 – 18 degrees Celcius). |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2021 Edi Simčič Duet
Regular price £29.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
It is reminiscent of blackberries, red cherries and a little of pepper. A wine of medium body and a more complex character of robust reds from the Goriška Brda region holding a soft texture and nice length, it has an ageing potential of up to five years.
Information about Edi Simčič
Three generations are still at work here, passing knowledge and experience from father to son every day. Edi himself is still very much a key character at the centre of the business, with his son Aleks working alongside him and taking the winery into a new era, while Aleks’ two sons learn their trade to take up the family mantle one day. Historically, Slovenia has experienced more than its fair share of hardships, re-shaping the lives of the whole population. In the case of Goriška Brda, the whole region was under fascist rule by Mussolini’s Italy up until the end of World War II, after which it passed into Communist rule as part of the reestablished Yugoslavia.
Like many other regions in the area, Goriška Brda’s whole agricultural industry suffered greatly under Communist rule, as all growers were expected to surrender a large portion of their grapes to the government, thus leaving growers with no resources to even consider quality growing and winemaking.
Upon independence and the formation of the Repubic of Slovenia in 1991, the family spared little time in pursuing their true calling as one of the leading winemakers of the country. Today their reputation is well-established, very deservedly so. Everything about Edi himself exudes gentleness, and this certainly comes across in the wines, thanks to patient growing, gentle handling in the cellar and utter perfectionism when it comes to ageing. Down in the cool cellars, none of the wines are rushed to be ready, and a masterful use of oak results in complex and slightly (but very attractively) oxidative wines.
Within Edi’s wheelhouse is a delicious Chardonnay, a wine he considers to be the first step everyone must take to fully understand his approach, after which comes the Sivi Pinot, the local name and style of Pinot Gris. The defining grape and wine of this project and indeed region is the indigenous Rebula, the true jewel in the Edi Simčič crown. Finally, the range is rounded off with a red called Duet, a harmonious blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. These wines are very special, and Edi and family have worked tirelessly to show the world what their region and country is capable of. This is Slovenia.
Alan's Personal Tasting Notes
"Love this - a classic Bordeaux blend of Cab Sauv, Cab Franc & Merlot aged in oak for 30 months. Medium bodied with lots of black & red fruits and a silky smooth finish. Being slightly oxidative means it’s drinking perfectly now but will age for a few years yet. Absolutely delicious! 17/20 "
Specifications
Year | 2021 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc |
Country | Slovenia |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Aging |
The wine is composed of the classic Bordeaux varietals Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and matured in oak barrels for 24-30 months to add extra complexity and depth of flavour. |
Cellaring | Drink now through to 2028 - no need to decant before serving |
Allergens | Contains Sulphites |
Features | Vegan and Vegetarian |
Food Matches | Suitable for all occasions, it can be offered with appetizers and with most main courses. |
Origin | Goriška Brda |
2018 Despagne-Rapin Les Piliers de Maison Blanche
Regular price £25.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%It’s pretty easy-going and the tannins are soft enough for you to keep wanting more. The finish is long and very pure.
“A family estate where enthusiasm is still cultivated by the slightly off-beat joy of creating natural, sincere and authentic wines” Nicolas Despagne.
Tasting Notes
Aromas of cassis and dark berry fruits lead to a rounded palate with supple blackberry and plum flavours and a delicate spice note. Always delivers excellent value Bordeaux.
Producer
The Château Maison Blanche takes its name from a large and beautiful building in white stone located in the heart of a large park. This is the family estate of Nicolas Despagne: an illustrious family of wine producers. Nicolas Despagne runs this 32 hectare estate and makes lovely, distinct wines. “Les Piliers” de Maison Blanche is a great value wine, with a lovely vibrant colour and a nose of supple berries with just the beginnings of spice and dried fruits.
Production
Les Piliers de Maison Blanche is the second wine of the domain. It is made up of wines from young vines enhanced by “coupes” of great wine from old vines planted on the estate's historic terroirs. It is a medium aging wine which is tasted young for its firmness and power, between two and four years, then in its period of maturity, during which its fragrances are fully expressed, from age of seven.
Cultivation without pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers containing synthetic chemical molecules; tillage & grassing conversion to organic farming in 2006 (Écocert certificate), part of which in bio-dynamism since 2002.
According to traditional vinification rules, respecting the expression of the terroir in the fruit without adding yeasts, bacteria, nitrogen, tannins, enzymes, shavings, tartaric acid (etc.) without recourse, automated thermoregulation, artificial concentration, micro-bubbling (etc.) Malolactic fermentations in vats without seeding.
Specifications
Year | 2018 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 40 to 60% Cabernet Franc & 40 to 60% Merlot |
Country | France |
Alcohol content | 14% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Read above! |
Features | Organic, Biodynamic, Vegan, Vegetarian |
Food Matches |
This wine goes very well with roast chicken with chanterelles. It also pairs well with red meat served with a sauce and venison |
Origin | Montagne de Saint Émilion |
Appellation |
Bordeaux |
2019 Doña Paula Altitude Series 1350
Regular price £21.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Its name derives from the average height of the selected parcels for this Blend.
Tasting Notes
Cabernet Franc 50%, Malbec 45%, Casavecchia 5%. Three are the varieties that compose this complex and balanced wine of intense purple colour. Cabernet Franc provides spicy and floral notes, while Malbec provides berries notes. It presents a good length and it is very persistent due to its tannins. It is an elegant blend with a great structure.
Vineyards
Doña Paula 1350 comes from 2 quarters (N° 10 and N° 7) from Finca Alluvia, Gualtallary, located at 1350 meters above sea level. The ground is sandy, with alluvial and calcareous stones. The weather of Valle de Uco represents mild days and cold nights, with a thermal amplitude of 12,5°C, and an annual rain average of 280 mm. The vines are planted in ESPALDERO, and they are watered by drip feed. The performance per hectare is of 10 tons. In Doña Paula, we have always been practicing sustainable agriculture methods
Vinification
The harvest starts with Malbec and Casavecchia by mid-April, and it finishes with Cabernet Franc at the end of the same month. The grapes are hand-picked and then they are destemmed gently, without breaking the berries. Each variety undergoes cold maceration separately, in stainless steel tanks, to extract the primary aromas. Once the alcoholic fermentation is complete, the blend is made, and the aging process is carried out in 20% new French oak barrels, for 16 months.
Awards
- 93 points Tim Atkins MW Argentina Report
- 93 points James Suckling
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 50% Cabernet Franc - 45% Malbec - 5% Casavecchia |
Country | Argentina |
|
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.8 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Suggested Serving Temp | Between 15°C and 18°C. |
Food Matches | Perfect to enjoy special dishes, such as a rack of lamb with sautéed mushrooms, or a rib-eye steak with quinoa risotto. |
Dietary Information | Gluten free, Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation |
|
2019 Paul Wallace Crackerjack Bordeaux Blend
Regular price £25.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This wine came about as an indulgence to the lady of the house, who is particularly partial to fine Bordeaux-styled blend. Together Paul and Nicky Wallace have put together a "cracker" of a wine, blending and showcasing the versatility of Elgin.
Tasting Notes
The alluring bright colour immediately invites one to explore this wine further. Merlot driven (think Bordeaux Right Bank) and power packed with fresh fruits encompassing both the red and black fruit spectrums, with a savoury core.
Notes of fresh cherry, cranberry, plum and blackcurrant on the palate, with chocolate and vanilla on the finish. Rich and opulent, yet bright and feminine, this little “cracker” is the perfect example of how the whole sum is better than the parts and of how the individual components support and enhance one another.
Winery
Paul Wallace Wines is a small family-run business with the farm located in Elgin, previously best known for its apples and pears, which is one of the most exciting developing wine regions within the South African wine industry and indeed internationally.
Vinification
The grapes all originate for the Elgin region, a high-lying basin surrounded by mountain ranges. Naturally the Malbec hails from Paul and Nicky’s farm, Wallovale Vineyards, whilst the other three grape varieties were bought in from Elgin grape producers with whom Paul has a direct involvement. A Cabernet Franc vineyard has been planted on Paul and Nicky’s farm but the first commercial harvest is only expected in 2020.
Each parcel of grapes was harvested at its own optimum ripeness and vinified separately at Eikendal Winery, Somerset West. Each wine was inoculated with Zymalore Xpure, a yeast recommended for wines with high aromatic purity, enhanced expression of black fruit notes and a great smoothness of mouthfeel. Post fermentation the wine was left for 14 days on the skins. Thereafter each wine was transferred to barrel where they completed Malolactic fermentation. The wines spent a minimum of 24 months in 225 lit French oak barriques prior to blending. The wine received a light filtration before bottling on 8th July 2021.
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 40% Merlot, 23% Cabernet Franc, 23% Cabernet Sauvignon and 14% Malbec. |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red White |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Food Matches |
We recommend the Crackerjack as the perfect accompaniment to your Sunday roast lamb, lasagna and tomato-based stews. Enjoy! |
Origin | Elgin |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2017 Château Kirwan Les Charmes de Kirwan
Regular price £39.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%The wine is fresh and fruity with red and black fruit aromas on the nose and an elegant yet firm palate. A fine and elegant wine.
Tasting Notes
Colour
A rich, deep color that immediately announces the tone of the vintage. It appears as a highly concentrated wine.
Nose
The rich, complex nose confirms this impression, with a blend of black fruit and spices such as black pepper, cinnamon and vanilla.
Palate
In the mouth, the attack is at once fresh and profuse. The sense of volume continues mid-palate while velvety tannins gradually develop, giving the wine its body without ever becoming overbearing. Everything is in perfect balance. A few notes of cocoa and coffee complement the broad aromatic palette right up to the prolonged finale, supported by extremely mature tannins.
Charmes de Kirwan is typically a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc and 10% Petit Verdot and represents a quarter of the total château production. It is the main wine’s “little brother” and is generally made from the fruit of the youngest vines and parcels of the vineyard that are less gravelly, but sandier.
Producer
Introduced in 1993, Les Charmes de Kirwan is the second wine of Château Kirwan, a third growth Margaux property in the commune of Cantenac, which has been owned by the Schyler family since 1925. Today, Jean-Henri Schyler lives in the Château and shares his passion of the terroir with his children Sophie, Nathalie and Yann. Thanks to their efforts alongside winemaker Philippe Delfaut, Château Kirwan has been producing superb wines in recent years.
Awards
- Silver Medal - Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, 2019
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 46% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot |
Country | France |
Alcohol content | 13% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 9.75 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Food Matches |
Red meat (beef and duck) and then, when it goes older, match it with a filet mignon accompanied with prunes or noble mushrooms. |
Origin |
Margaux |
Appellation | Bordeaux |
2019 Oldenburg Cabernet Franc
Regular price £35.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%An incredibly focused and pure Cabernet Franc that echoes the Loire. In the words of the Decanter World Wine Awards: ‘Texturally very impressive, with balance, concentration and zesty vigour!’
Tasting Notes
Nose
This wine has an incredibly generous nose, with vanilla pod, mulberry black plums and liquorice at the heart of it.
Palate
The palate showcases a depth of flavour with blackcurrant leaf, thyme and grapefruit-pith adding to the plethora of aromas and flavours. A stunning acidity, well-structured chalky tannins and a delightful finish bring this wine to life.
Winery
Oldenburg; a hot topic from a cool climate. Anyone who knows anything about South African wine should have Oldenburg fully on their radar – they are producing outrageously good wine and have, very arguably, the most beautiful tasting room to visit in the Cape. Oldenburg, situated in the Banghoek Valley of Stellenbosch, has one of the coolest microclimates in the region. A combination of a mountain amphitheatre, high altitude and cooling winds result in growing conditions about 5 degrees cooler than the rest of Stellenbosch.
Oldenburg aims to best reflect their remarkable terroir through the Oldenburg Vineyards (OV) range of wines – a range of single-cultivar wines. There is minimal intervention in the vineyards and the wines are made in an uncompromising manner.
Cabernet Franc seems to have found its home in the Banghoek Valley, and ours grows exceptionally well at the foot of Rondekop, our mystical hill.
Vintage Conditions
While winter had a late start, it was characterised by good rainfall, leading to an even budbreak. A turbulent start to flowering season improved towards the onset of summer. Warmer weather in November contributed to even vineyard growth. A moderate January and February was followed by an initially hot February, while cool and wet conditions dominated from the end of February through March, creating challenging harvest conditions. Despite the wetter conditions, our microclimate allowed the grapes to achieve ideal ripeness.
Winemaking & Maturation
Grapes were harvested and sorted carefully by hand, and cold soaked for 5 days before fermentation was initiated. Pumpovers were performed up to three times daily. Malolactic conversion was in barrel. The wine was matured in French oak barrels for 18 months. 29% of barrels used were 225L with the balance in 300L. The wine was bottled in November 2020.
Accolades
- 93pts | Platter's
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Cabernet Franc |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Food matching |
A delicate game meat such as ostrich or deer served with a cranberry and thyme jus. |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential |
This wine is from a cooler vintage, and has a brilliant future ahead of it, promising spectacular development over the next 15 years. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
Doña Paula Altitude Series Gift Pack
Regular price £50.00 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Altitude Series contains some of the most recognizable labels from the Doña Paula winery. Its three members are blends that seek to reflect the expression of the different farms, and in particular the different dreams and altitudes at which the vines are planted. But at the same time, the common thread that sustains the line - and the winery - is clear: freshness.
Tasting Notes
The line begins with 2021 Doña Paula Altitude Series 969 : its yellow line logo represents the clay soil of Finca El Alto, located 969 meters above sea level in Ugarteche, Luján de Cuyo (Mendoza). It is a cut of Petit Verdot (55%), Bonarda (40%) and Malbec (5%) with an intense violet colour. On the nose, Petit Verdot brings aromas of blueberries and jasmine while Bonarda adds intense aromas of blackberries and raspberries. It stands out for its firm tannins and good volume in the mouth, Malbec offers an attractive structure and a long finish.
The 2019 Doña Paula Altitude Series 1350, with a greyish-white logo, comes from the stony and calcareous soils of Finca Alluvia, Gualtallary, Valle de Uco (Mednoza). It is a blend of Cabernet Franc (50%), Malbec (45%) and Casavecchia (5%) with an intense violet color. Cabernet Franc provides spicy and floral notes, while Malbec provides berries notes. It presents a good length and it is very persistent due to its tannins. It is an elegant blend with a great structure.
Finally, 2019 Doña Paula Altitude Series 1100, the one with the red logo, comes from pink caliche soils from Finca Los Indios located in El Cepillo, San Carlos. Uco Valley (Mendoza). It combines Malbec (60%), Syrah (30%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (10%) blended to create this complex and balanced wine of a deep violet color. In the nose, it has floral aromas – such as violet and rosehip – typical of the Malbec variety. The Syrah contributes spicy notes, good volume in the mouth and silky tannins, whereas the Cabernet Sauvignon complements the blend with a great structure.
Specifications
Altitude Series 969 | Altitude Series 1350 | Altitude Series 1100 | |
Year | 2021 | 2019 | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml | 750ml | 750ml |
Cultivar | 55% Petit Verdot, 40% Bonarda, 5% Malbec. |
50% Cabernet Franc - 45% Malbec - 5% Casavecchia |
60% Malbec, 30% Syrah & 10% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | Argentina | Argentina | Argentina |
Alcohol content | 14% alc vol | 14.4% alc vol | 15% alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units | 10.8 units | 11.2 units |
Type | Red Wine | Red Wine | Red Wine |
Suggested Serving Temp | Between 15°C and 18°C. | Between 15°C and 18°C. | Between 15°C and 18°C. |
Food Matches | Perfect to enjoy special dishes, such as a rack of lamb with sautéed mushrooms. | Delicious to enjoy with a rib-eye steak with quinoa risotto. | Beef tenderloin, blue cheese and spinach wrapped in pastry, and served with sweet potato purée and roasted pepper coulis. |
Dietary Information | Gluten-free, Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly | Gluten-free, Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly | Gluten-free, Vegan & Vegetarian Friendly |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites | Contains sulphites | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | El Alto, Ugarteche, Luján de Cuyo, Mendoz | Alluvia, Gualtallary, Tupungato, Uco Valley | Los Indios, El Cepillo, San Carlos, Uco Valley |
2017 Chateau Mangot Saint-Emillion Grand Cru
Regular price £27.95 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%A plush and appealing, classic Saint-Émilion Grand Cru from this progressive Château.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Complex aromas of bramble fruit with herbal notes and a touch of spice.
Palate
The palate is plush with ripe plum and berry characters, fine tannins, well-integrated oak, and fresh acidity giving balance on the long and elegant finish.
Producer
Nestled in the far eastern reaches of the Saint-Émilion appellation, Château Mangot consists of 37 hectares with a diversity of clay-limestone soils. Whilst vines are naturally the star of the show for the estate’s current guardians, the Todeschini family, 15% of the estate consists of hedges, woods and embankments, which contribute to a rich biodiversity. Brothers Yann and Karl look after the vineyard management and winemaking themselves and are committed to following sound ecological practises.
A lightness of touch and genuine care flows through everything they do; from protecting the soils using only natural fertilisers, to the use of native yeasts and only the very tiniest amount of SO2 in the winery. They do not “make” the wines, but rather guide them into fulfilling their potential as pure, precise and quality expressions of the terroir. The estate was promoted to Grand Cru Classé status in 2022 in recognition of their consistently well-made, polished wines and their commitment to biodiversity and the environment.
Production
The grapes - predominantly Merlot with some Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon - are cultivated on a selection of different soil types and aspects, from clay-limestone hillsides to a limestone plateau, at 35-90 m altitude. Average age of the vines is 40 years - and the vineyard is maintained according to environmental principles. At harvest time the grapes are selected, de-stemmed and undergo a cold pre-fermentation maceration before gentle vinification in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks for 4 weeks. The wine is then aged for 13-15 months in barrels of diffferent ages - with 10% remaining in stainless steel. The wine is then blended and bottled, 18-20 months following the harvest.
Specifications
Year | 2017 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | Merlot 80%, Cabarnet Franc 15%, Cabarnet Sauvignon 5% |
Country | Bordeaux France |
Alcohol content |
14% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.5 units |
Type | Red Blend |
Cellaring Potential | Awaiting info |
Features | Contains Sulphites |
Food Matches |
Drink with lamb or beef, or keep it simple with rich tomato-based pasta dishes.
|
Origin | Montagne de Saint Émilion |
Appellation
|
Saint-Emillion Grand Cru |
2018/2019 Luigi Bosca De Sangre Cabernet Franc
Regular price £21.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%This Malbec was one of the first Argentine wines with a Designation of Origin.
De Sangre is the name the winery has given to those outstanding blends that are meant to be shared with loved ones, a tradition that has remained uninterrupted for over a century.
Tasting Notes
Nose
A deep dark garnet-coloured red wine
Palate
It is refreshing and voluptuous in the mouth, with fine and gentle tannins, while it is clean and expressive in the palate, with a strong character, typicity and a deep finish with soft smoked hues as a result of its ageing in oak barrels. It is a great exponent of the variety and the terroir, with good ageing potential.
It features pleasant notes that are reminiscent of liquorice, spices, pink pepper and a little bit of black fruit.
Producer
The winery that today produces Luigi Bosca wines was founded in 1901 by Leoncio Arizu, a Spanish citizen from Navarra who settled in Mendoza in 1890. Located in the Vistalba valley, in the Luján de Cuyo region, an area that, due to its characteristics, achieved the first " Denomination of Controlled Origin "of America. Luigi Bosca launched the first Malbec DOC in Argentina and Latin America.
Winemaking
The grapes are manually harvested in 18 to 20-kilogram boxes, followed by the bunch selection and stalking processes, and, subsequently, berry selection. The grape juice is cold macerated at a temperature ranging between 8 and 10 °C for five to seven days. After that, it is fermented in small stainless steel tanks, undergoing various extractions, such as plunging and rack and return (délestage). Once maceration is completed, wine is aged for 10 months in oak barrels, where it goes through malolactic fermentation. The wine is then filtered and bottled, and then stowed in the wine cellar for at least six months before it enters the market.
Awards - 2018 Vintage
- Bronze IWC 2021
- Silver Decanter World Wine Awards 2021, 90 points
-
James Suckling - April 2020: 91 pts. - Aromas of sweet cherries with fresh herbs and hints of cement and stone, following through to a medium body with fine, intergrated tannins and subtle fruit at the end. Drink now.
Specifications
Year | 2018/2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Cabernet Franc |
Country | Argentina |
Alcohol content | 14.3 % alc vol |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.6 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Cellaring Potential | 12 years |
Ageing in Barrels | 10 months in oak barrels |
Suggested Serving Temp | Between 16°C and 18°C. |
Food Matches | A great wine to enjoy with special dishes, such as beef loin marinated with vegetables, or a dry-aged beef served with rocket and parmesan salad |
Dietary Information | Vegan & Vegetarian approved |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Appellation | Mendoza |
2019 Beau Constantia 'Lucca'
Regular price £27.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%Tasting Notes
It’s a blend of near parts Merlot and Cabernet Franc, harvested in the cool hours of the morning to retain freshness, from well-exposed North-East facing slopes. After natural fermentation on skins, the wine was matured in French Oak for 18 months.
Expect indulgent notes of plum, black cherry and vanilla. Savoury and herbaceous on the palate, with classic cool-climate acidity and freshness.
The Year by Winemaker Megan van der Merwe
"2019 was a pivotal year for Beau Constantia. Our terroir faced a massive shift in climate, and I was honoured enough to take over the entire winemaking process from ground to glass. Fearful? Be not. Change is the basic law of nature, and remaining in sync with our ever-changing environment is a way of life we find humbling, exciting and rewarding."
Winery
Some two decades ago, raging wildfires swept through an area of forest high up on Constantia Nek, leaving the slopes scorched and bare. When the fire had subsided, what was left was a brilliant and unique spot for planting a vineyard; 350 metres above sea level, with cooling ocean breezes and steep sun-bathed hills and so, like a phoenix, Beau Constantia rose from the ashes.
Sensing opportunity, Pierre and Cecily Du Preez acquired the 22-hectare property in 2002. With thorough soil analysis guiding their efforts, the inaugural vineyards were planted in 2003 under the careful guidance of farm manager, Japie Bronn.
The journey to establish vineyards on these challenging slopes demanded patience and unwavering commitment. Today, Beau Constantia proudly boasts 11.47 hectares under vine, a testament to the perseverance and dedication of all involved. Within these vineyards thrive a diverse range of varietals, including Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Shiraz, and Petit Verdot, each meticulously nurtured to capture the unique essence of this extraordinary landscape.
This boutique wine farm with just over 11 hectares under vine has utterly spectacular views over the peninsula. Megan van der Merwe is the Head Winemaker, having taken over from Justin Van Wyk in 2021, after serving as Assistant Winemaker during his successful tenure. Megan believes in 'farming to perfection - just don't stuff it up in the cellar!'. This very talented winemaker is certainly one to watch.
Each of their releases is a tribute to a member of the family.
Accolades & Awards
- Tim Atkin | 91 Pts
“Cabernet Franc led for the first time; Lucca is a blend with 47% French clone Merlot. Green, tangy and bright, this reflects the cooler 2019 growing season in Constantia and has appealing cedarwood, black cherry and cranberry flavours complemented by fine-boned tannins.”
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 53% Cabernet France, 47% Merlot |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content | 14.7% abv |
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 11 units per bottle |
Type | Red Wine - Bordeaux Blend |
Cellaring Potential | 2023 - 2027 |
Food Matching | Roasted red peppers or spiced monkish. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Constantia |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |
2019 Oldenburg Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon
Regular price £29.99 Save Liquid error (snippets/product-template line 117): Computation results in '-Infinity'%One of SA’s most exciting producers? Yes. From one of SA’s premium Cab growing regions? Yep. Banging Cab? Absolutely!
Tasting Notes
Nose
The slopes of Rondekop provide the ideal terroir for our spectacular Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine has a deep ruby core and a depth of black fruits on the nose. Black cherries, black plums and blackcurrant are present, along with spicier notes of baking spice, cigar box and lavender.
Palate
A beautifully defined palate with long-grained tannins and a mouth-watering acidity carries the fruit and the spices to an emphatic finish.
A bold, yet elegant, Cabernet Sauvignon brimming with black fruit and cassis. In addition to the black fruit there is a bouquet of spice, ranging from tobacco to cedar. Grippy long-grained tannin and beautiful mouth-watering acidity carry the wine on the palate to a long finish. An exceptional wine to be enjoyed now, or in the next 8–10 years.
Winery
Oldenburg; a hot topic from a cool climate. Anyone who knows anything about South African wine should have Oldenburg fully on their radar – they are producing outrageously good wine and have, very arguably, the most beautiful tasting room to visit in the Cape. Oldenburg, situated in the Banghoek Valley of Stellenbosch, has one of the coolest microclimates in the region. A combination of a mountain amphitheatre, high altitude and cooling winds result in growing conditions about 5 degrees cooler than the rest of Stellenbosch.
Oldenburg aims to best reflect their remarkable terroir through the Oldenburg Vineyards (OV) range of wines – a range of single cultivar wines. There is minimal intervention in the vineyards and the wines are made in an uncompromising manner.
Vintage Conditions
While winter had a late start, it was characterised by good rainfall, leading to an even budbreak. A turbulent start to flowering season improved towards the onset of summer. Warmer weather in November contributed to even vineyard growth. A moderate January and February was followed by an initially hot February, while cool and wet conditions dominated from the end of February through March, creating challenging harvest conditions. Despite the wetter conditions, our microclimate allowed the grapes to achieve ideal ripeness.
Winemaking & Maturation
Grapes were hand-picked and meticulously hand-sorted before destemming and crushing. After 5 days of cold soaking fermentation began, using on wild yeast. 1 to 3 pumpovers, at the expense of punchdowns, were done per day for optimal extraction. Post fermentation wine completed malolactic conversion and spent 18 months maturing in French oak barrels (27% new).
Accolades
- 94 points | Tim Aitkin
Specifications
Year | 2019 |
Bottle Size | 750ml |
Cultivar | 100% Cabernet Sauvignon |
Country | South Africa |
Alcohol content
|
13.5% alc vol
|
Units of Alcohol per Bottle | 10.1 units |
Type | Red Wine |
Food Match | Beef Burger with vintage mature cheddar and red wine caramelised onions. |
Cellaring Potential |
An exceptional wine to be enjoyed now, or in the next 8–10 years. |
Allergen Information | Contains sulphites |
Origin | Stellenbosch |
Appellation | WO Western Cape |