A classic clean, crisp, lightly aromatic Sauvignon showing grassy green fruit and passion fruit character backed by zesty acidity and good mineral grip. Excellent value.
A mid-weight Chardonnay that wears its oak up-front: toast, hazelnut, smoke and spice. The fruit comes in afterwards in the form of peach, yellow apple, sweet pear and ripe melon. Very good length and balanced with just the right amount of acidity giving a lift at the end.
Clear medium lemon yellow. Nose of melon, citrus and flowers. Light- to medium-bodied with good acidity and delicate pear, lemon and melon flavours. Drink now.
Hemel-en-Aarde translates as “Heaven on Earth” and is a cool-climate enclave in the Western Cape of South Africa. A golden colour and heavily toasted nose are the first things to greet the senses. Smoke, toast, pineapple, ripe peach, honey, leather, spice and yellow apple are all layered on a medium body full of cream and acid. Excellent length.
Clear, medium-deep lemon-zest yellow. Somewhat reticent nose of Granny Smith apple and apricot. On the palate it is indeed lady-like: fruity but dignified and well balanced, tasting of peaches and melon with lemony acidity. The second glass stays interesting despite the absence of oak. I enjoyed this accompanied by a simple grilled Camembert sandwich with crudités.
Clear, deep lemon-zest yellow. Medium-intensity nose of apple, lime, melon and a hint of toasted nuts. Medium-bodied, tasting of lime, butter and an accent of celery leaf. Hard to distinguish from a Burgundy: classy, refined, with crisp acidity and a long finish. Will improve for another year or 2. A food wine — try with veal in a sundried tomato sauce.
This Rhône-inspired blend delivers the goods at an affordable price. Cassis, plum, dark cherry, smoke, leather, spice and vanilla are supported by soft tannins and an easy-drinking nature. Barbecue all the way!