Kaapzicht new releases – 2019

The Steytler family have farmed Kaapzicht in Bottelary, Stellenbosch since 1946 and it’s gladdening to see the enthusiasm and, yes, passion that fourth generation Danie Jnr now brings to bear having taken over as winemaker in 2009. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Kaapzicht Kliprug Chenin Blanc 2018
Price: R150
Grapes from a 1982 vineyard. Matured in 500-litre barrels, 15% new. A top note of hay before pear and peach plus a little leesy reduction. Very good fruit concentration, ensuring that the vibrant acidity is nicely coated, the finish long and pithy. Compact and composed.

Editor’s rating: 93/100.

71 years young.

Kaapzicht The 1947 Chenin Blanc 2018
Price: R500
Three 500-litre barrels, one first-, one second- and one third-fill, form the basis of this wine, these each providing different components for a final blend that amounts to just 900 bottles. A complex nose showing pear, peach, citrus and even a hint of pineapple with some notes of herbs and hay in the background. The palate has more flavour intensity and all-round power than its counterpart above but equally does not lack for intricacy or verve. If anything, this is the least showy vintage of this wine to date.

Editor’s rating: 96/100.

Kaapzicht Steytler Pentagon 2017
Price: R500
Cape Bordeaux red blend. New oak reduced from 100% to 80%, length of maturation from 24 to 18 months and the wine is the better for it. Red and black fruit, dried herbs and a little rose-like perfume on the nose. Medium-bodied (despite an alcohol of 14.5%) and nicely energetic – pure, fresh and super-dry on the finish.

Editor’s rating: 93/100.

Kaapzicht Steylter Vision 2017
Price: R500
50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Pinotage and 15% Merlot. Red cherry, rose, herbs and spice on the nose. Medium-bodied with soft acidity and smooth tannins. Feels broad in the mouth and already quite approachable.

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Kaapzicht Steylter Pinotage 2017
Price: R500
Red and black cherry plus notes of incense, vanilla and banana loaf. The palate is rich and smooth textured. Flavourful, although a slight sense of sweetness will perturb some.

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

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