Joostenberg Small Batch Collection Touriga Nacional 2014

Raw diamond.

Joostenberg winemaker Tyrell Myburgh is making some fascinating stuff under the Small Batch Collection label, developed so as to allow the winemaking team to “explore various techniques, grape varieties and vineyards”.

This is the second release of Touriga Nacional, grapes coming from a very small dryland vineyard (600 vines) planted in 2000. Spontanteously fermented in open-topped tanks, it was matured for 18 months in an old barrel. Total production: 606 bottles.

The 2014 seems to have more grunt than the maiden 2013, despite an abv of just 12.5%. Black fruit, scrub and some reduction. Great concentration, lemon-like acidity and fine tannins, the finish intensely savoury. Altogether, a super characterful drop. Price: R130 a bottle.

#WinemagRating: 91/100.