Provenance

Producer

Critics Ratings

'Named for two blocks on the farm. Unmistakeably cool-climate, as perfumed intensity of fresh black fruits, compact build, bracing, steely but ripely firm grape tannins on 2016 reveal. Flavoursome & richly textured flesh brings whole into balance. Natural ferment in open oak vats; 21 months on lees in barriques, 25% new. Deserves years in bottle.' - Platter's SA Wine Guide 2020, 4.5* (94/100)

'Vibrant mid-garnet colour. Pure nose of mature, cool-climate Cabernet - a herbaceous scent I do not encounter that often in this era of ever-warmer summers. There is some fruit here to counterbalance the acidity and some leafy aromas. Fresh, perfumed, sweet wine that's nicely in balance. Well done! Even if it's slightly skinnier than the Cabernet mainstream nowadays.' - Jancis Robinson MW, JancisRobinson.com, 16/20 (Nov 2020)

'This South African red could outshine more than one Médoc vintage. The nose is superb; notes of graphite, crème de cassis, black truffle, with magnificent oak. The palate is delicate, its creamy envelope woven with an incredible mineral intensity. Already delicious, it can be aged for at least 20 years.' - La Revue du Vin de France, 2020 - 19/20. (Highest rated SA red wine, tie with Columella 2017).

'It takes courage to grow Cabernet Sauvignon in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley, but Craig Wessels' two sites, both planted in 1998 but with different soil types and exposures, consistently deliver the goods. This is lighter and more forward than the 2015 - it could almost be a Cabernet Franc - with graphite and black cherry flavours and filigree tannins.' - Tim Atkin SA Special Report, 95/100