Dorper new releases

Reg Holder, who has both winemaking and financial management degrees, launched de-alcoholised wine brand Lautus in 2018 and now makes 800 000 bottles under that label. He continues to focus on fine wine with his Dorper label range.

Pinotage Rosé 2025
Price: R220
Fermentation started in tank and finished in older 300-litre barrels, maturation lasting six months. Discreet notes of cherry, strawberry and spice on the nose while the palate is well balanced with good weight, well integrated acidity and a gently savoury finish. Alc: 12.5%.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Chenin Blanc 2023
Price: R320
Grapes come from two vineyards planted in 1981 on the Bottelary property formerly home to the Sterhuis wines. The wine was matured in older 300-litre barrels.

A subtle wet-wool note leads the nose, followed by citrus, peach and a hint of pineapple. The palate is rich and full, showing plenty of fruit weight and a creamy texture, the acidity well-integrated. The finish is gently savoury. Open, generous and full of character. Alc: 13.3%.

Score: 93/100.

Pinotage 2023
Price: R320
Grapes come from a Helderberg vineyard planted in 1972, Polkadraai Hills in 1980 and Koelenhof in 1996. Semi-carbonic maceration was employed before 12 months’ maturation in older 300-litre barrels.

The nose is engaging with notes of strawberry, cherry, fynbos, and hints of earth and spice. The palate shows pure fruit, bright acidity and fine tannins, the finish long and savoury. Very much New Wave in style but with sufficient substance at 13.7% alcohol. Balanced, detailed and not too self-consciously edgy.

Score: 94/100.

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