Modern, Post-War and Contemporary Art, Decorative Arts, and Wine

Online-Only Auction, 31 May - 7 June 2021

Wine - Stellenbosch Theme

Sold for

ZAR 2 932
Lot 685
  • Thelema; Merlot Reserve; 2003; 3 (1 x 3); 750ml


Lot Estimate
ZAR 3 000 - 4 500
Selling Price
Incl. Buyer's Premium & VAT
ZAR 2 932

About this Item

2003 Merlot Reserve
3 (1 x 3) 750ml

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.

This is a barrel selection of Thelemas' finest merlot.

Provenance

Private Client

Critics Ratings

‘A show-stopper! Elegant rather than ostentatious, marvellous concentration of blackcurrant, fennel, leaf flavours buffed by 20 months in 100% new French oak. Ripe yet vibrantly fresh, lingeringly dry. Limited production, with excellent potential for aging.’ - Platter’s SA Wine Guide 2006, 5*

View all Thelema lots for sale in this auction