Shows surprisingly intense scent of lime with background tropical fruit notes. Pure lime hits the palate first, together with lemon, gritty mineral and vibrant acidity. Pure crisp clean flavours call for grilled seafoods or lightly spiced oriental dishes.
From the man credited with figureheading the Swartland Revolution, this Chenin Blanc is a highlight of the South African offerings on our market. If you see it, buy. And this is his "entry-level" Secateurs line, from selected old-bush vines on granite slopes. Cream, wild herbs and meadow flowers are drawn across a very waxy palate, where spiced pear and subtle fennel notes join in. Savoury, with precise lemon-zest vibrancy, broken stones, roasted nut, medicinal lemon balm and gentle honeycomb, this young vintage finishes smoothly, with some gentle waxy warmth. Drinking now well, but will hold with short-term aging.
If you like sparkling wine in Champagne style then don't miss this terrific bubbly from South Africa at a bargain price. Golden straw in colour, it offers a toasty, smoky nose of brioche and honey; it's dry, medium-bodied but rich and full on the palate with a toasty, nutty, apple and honey flavour with fresh lemony acidity.
Bright and accessible with fresh currants, blackberry, cocoa, earth, tobacco and spice, soft texture, juicy tannins and a soft, lively finish. A well-made, good-value Cab for under $20.
Big and bold with loads of black fruit, dark cocoa and vanilla, structured with a tight core, firm tannins and a big finish. Needs time and will benefit with several hours in a decanter if the plan is to drink it now. Better to forget about it in the cellar for at least 3 to 5 years.
Lovely, elegant and layered with pure blackberry, black cherry and black and red currants, balanced and fresh with firm, plush well-integrated tannins and a long finish with bright acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Delivers well above its price point.
Quite rich and full with oak that is slightly overbearing without putting the wine out of balance; lovely citrus, pear and apricot flavours, quite a firm backbone and a big finish. A lighter hand with the oak would allow the freshness of the wine to shine.