Provenance

Wine Cellar Private Client

Critics Ratings

'The 2018 Fire by Night is pure Swartland Chenin Blanc and aged in the same minimal-intervention manner as Cartology. This is quite reticent on the nose at first, manifesting orange blossom and honeysuckle/jasmine aromas with aeration but never achieving the intensity of the Cartology. The entrancing palate features tangerine and quince notes on the entry, pitch-perfect acidity and an effervescent finish that urges you to take another sip immediately. Feel that energy! This is a quite brilliant wine from Chris Alheit.' - Neal Martin, Vinous, 96/100 (Oct 2019)

'Fire by Night comes from a farm that Chris Alheit acquired in August 2019, which secures the source of this impressive Chenin. Made with fruit from a cooler, morning sun-facing parcel, it shows the taut, almost austere minerality that's a feature of the Nuwedam farm, layers of spice, lees and subtle oak and lovely precision. 2021-30.' - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019, 94/100

'Chiseled and energetic, this Chenin shows melon, yellow apple and mirabelle plum flavors of great intensity, underscored by mouthwatering acidity. Hints of juniper and sea salt add a savory, fresh component, which extends on the finish. Beautifully put together, with a gorgeous mouthfeel. Best from 2022 through 2032.' - Wine Spectator, 93/100 (Nov 2020)

'A little less open than the Cartology. Some lime fruit and crunchy green apple, tangerine as it opens. A gentle oak mealiness on the palate and fabulous fruit purity with a dry finesse that seems to be the granite effect. Utterly mouth-watering without being tart. Very persistent.' - Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com, 17.5/20 (Sep 2019)