Provenance

Private Client

Critics Ratings

Die Krans Vintage Reserve Port 1997:
‘Bright ruby color. Deep, aromatic nose of black cherry, blackberry, plum and dark chocolate; has a primary grapey quality. Very tightly wound and intensely flavored; chewy with extract. Not at all overly sweet. Powerful spine of acids and tannins gives this very unevolved port terrific grip. Rather aggressive finish calls for several years of aging. I'd like to throw this in a blind tasting of '97 ports from the Douro. Die Krans, like Boplaas, double distills chenin blanc to fortify its ports, rather than using brandy purchased from the South African government, which tends to be leesier and thus less clean.’ – Stephen Tanzer, Vinous (Jan 2001)

‘Lots of muscular raisin and chocolate flavors, but turns a bit chewy and rustic in the end. Might soften up a bit with some time. Drink now through 2003.’ – James Molesworth, Wine Spectator (May 2001)

Die Krans Cape Vintage Port 1999:
‘Deep ruby. High-pitched aromas of red- and blackcurrant, minerals and espresso, lifted by a floral topnote. Concentrated and chewy with extract; the sappy red berry flavors show good verve and avoid heaviness. A fruit-filled port with ripe tannins and excellent grip.’ – Stephen Tanzer, Vinous (Mar 2003)