Bordeaux Theme
Live Virtual Auction, 26 March 2023
Bordeaux Fine Wine
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
About this Item
Thelema, the Greek word for ‘will’, was a charming dilapidated fruit farm until Gyles Webb came along and purchased the farm with the help of his wife’s family in 1983. Placed at the top of the Helshoogte Pass, Thelema is one of the highest and coolest estates in the area, its deep red soils make it ideal for premium quality wine grape production. At a time when the South African wine scene was focused on quantity rather than quality, Webb was a trailblazing pioneer on a mission to craft world-class wines. Construction began on the winery in 1987, and Thelema produced its first vintage in 1988. Winemaking since 2000 has been in the capable hands of Rudi Schultz, with Gyles's son Thomas involved in running the business.
Rabelais is a blend of the best Bordeaux components from our Thelema range from the 2015 vintage.
Provenance
Private Client
Critics Ratings
‘In youth, this Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot duo is quietly stellar. It shows striking focus of blackcurrant flavour lifted by ethereal kelp/iodine tones, while exceptionally well-managed tannin structure contains the sleek fruit. 20 months French oak, 80% new, perfect platform for ageing.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2020, 4.5* (94/100)
‘Comparatively late released, but it was well worth the wait for this world-class cuvée of Cabernet Sauvignon with 7% Petit Verdot. Such class, such balance, such elegance, such finesse, such aging potential! This is one of the wines of a great Cape vintage. Drink 2020-2030.’ - Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2019, 97/100
'Lovely aromas of rich cassis, black cherry, plum sauce, pressed violet and a touch of sweet cigar tobacco form the bouquet of this hearty yet alluring red. The palate is plush and velvety in feel, with robust yet ripe tannins that are perfectly matched to the bold intensity of the ripe black fruit flavors. Lasting impressions of black plum and cherry flesh fuel the finish, with notes of cherry pit, pipe tobacco and sweet licorice on the back.' - Lauren Buzzeo, Wine Enthusiast, 93/100 (Sep 2020)
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