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Raats Original Unwooded Chenin Blanc 2021
Origin: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Retail: $14.95 | $13.46
The grapes for Raats Original Chenin Blanc are sourced from vineyards in Stellenbosch. The vines average 36 years of age. All of the vineyards are characterized by complex soils of either Table Mountain sandstone or decomposed dolomite granite. The vineyard sites are a combination of trellised and bush vine, irrigated and dry farmed. A recently planted vineyard consisting of a new French clone of Chenin Blanc recently came into production helping to significantly increase the quality of the Chenin Blanc. Bursting with fresh fruit flavors, this vibrant wine displays a distinctive yellow apple and pineapple core, alongside notes of green melon and limes. The wine reveals zesty citrus flavors and a long mineral finish.
100% Chennin Blanc
Glenelly ‘Glass Collection’ Chardonnay 2020
Origin: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Retail: $15.95 | $14.96
The Glenelly Estate vineyards are situated on the southern slopes of the Simonsberg mountain. Soils are predominantly oakleaf, a form of decomposed granite with a deep layer of clay, which lends itself to making fresh, elegant and well-structured wines. Glenelly enjoys a high percentage of cooler, east facing slopes. This is unusual for Stellenbosch and allows for slower, more even ripening. The Chardonnay vineyards were planted in 2005. The Glass Collection Chardonnay has a bright and brilliant color with a slight green hue. The wine has multifaceted aromas of citrus fruit, ripe pear, quince and flint. On the palate there is a beautiful round texture with brilliant length and intense citrus and mineral complexity
100% Chardonnay
Glenelly Estate Reserve 2015
Origin: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Retail: $26.95 | Sale: $24.26
Glenelly Estate Reserve is the signature red blend of the estate. Rich powerful aromatics of red fruits, plum and blackberries initially present themselves, followed by hints of savory, spicy Syrah with touches of cedar and floral tones. The palate entry has great richness of ripe fresh fruit and pepper spice supported by firm, balanced tannins. Very good oak integration with a fresh long finish.
35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 15% Syrah, 10% Petit Verdot, 10% Cabernet Franc
Taaibosch Crescendo Red Blend 2018
Origin: Stellenbosch, South Africa
Retail: $42.95 | Sale: $38.66
Situated on the slopes of the Helderberg Mountain in Stellenbosch, Taaibosch’s story began in the early 1690’s when the property was first surveyed and granted to early settlers. It was in the possession of the De Villiers family until 1838 when the estate changed hands for the first time. In the mid 1990’s the property began producing its own wines under the name Cordoba. These wines quickly gained fame and by the late 1990’s Cordoba had become a cult brand and an icon of South Africa under the guidance of winemaker Chris Keet. Unfortunately, in the early 2000’s the cellar was made dormant but this changed when in 2016 the Oddo family purchased the property. Through meticulous care, rejuvenated the vineyards and built a new state of the art cellar. The new name bestowed on the property was Taaibosch, which originates from the prevalent indigenous fynbos plant found on the estate. Notes of white pepper, clove and red berries give this wine delightful aromatics to pleasure the senses. The tension in the wine lends itself to an elegant finish, bringing together the various elements in a gentle fashion culminating in this well-polished wine.
43% Cabernet Franc, 36% Merlot, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon