Antares Field Blend 2024

Antares is the “ever-changing field blend” from the farm Le Lit de Franken in the Buffeljags River ward near Swellendam, made by Jos van Wyk, whose day job is at Stellenbosch property Marianne.

The 2023 vintage was something of a revelation, and the newly released 2024 (R420 a bottle) again impresses – perhaps a touch “greener” in tone, but no less compelling for its individuality.

The 2024 vintage saw a moderate spring, a rainy late December and a warm January, with all components (52% Chenin Blanc, 32% Semillon and 16% Sauvignon Blanc) harvested together on 3 February. Maturation lasted 10 months in 90% older French oak and 10% glass demijohns, the latter undergoing malolactic conversion.

The nose shows pear, peach, lime, bell pepper, green melon, fynbos and potpourri, while the palate offers pure fruit, bright acidity and a dry finish. The acidity is initially quite assertive, yet there’s enough fruit weight to provide balance, and the wine ultimately drinks very well indeed. Alc: 12.54%.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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