Mvemve Raats new releases

Mzo Mvemve and Bruwer Raats, the duo behind the MR label, have until now produced just one wine, that being De Compostella, a Bordeaux-style red blend, first released in 2004. That changes with the release of a companion white called Vesperi from the 2023 vintage. Described by Raats as “Bordeaux-style but different”, it sees Chenin Blanc join the more traditional Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Tasting notes and ratings follow:

MR Vesperi 2023
Price: R1,200
34% Chenin Blanc, 22% Sauvignon Blanc, 33% Semillon. Sauvignon fermented on the skins for seven days, Semillon for some three days before maturation in older barrels for nine months, the Chenin in concrete.  The nose is slow to open, but reveals layers of peach, nectarine, orange, fynbos, subtle spice, and a touch of waxiness. The palate is broad, with moderate, lightly tangy acidity and a savoury, gently grippy finish. Seamlessly assembled, with the component varieties well integrated. Generous in texture without feeling heavy. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

MR de Compostella 2022
Price: R2,150
44% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 20% Malbec, 9% Merlot, 4% Petit Verdot. The nose shows cranberry, raspberry, and a touch of cassis, alongside violets and a subtle leafy note while the palate is medium-bodied, intricate, and resolutely dry. It’s accessible now but also well structured, with the vibrancy and balance to suggest significant aging potential. Pure rather than plush, restrained but not at the expense of pleasure. It may surprise some, but I’d argue this shades the more forceful 2021. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

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