Ashbourne new releases

By , 25 November 2020

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Ashbourne, the property owned by Anthony Hamilton Russell located on the eastern border of Hamilton Russell Vineyards, is dedicated to the production of two wines, a Sauvignon Blanc-based blend called Sandstone and a Pinotage. Tasting notes and ratings for the current releases as follows:

Ashbourne Sandstone 2020
Price: R250
51% Sauvignon Blanc fermented in amphorae, 25% Semillon in older oak and 24% Chardonnay in ceramic egg. This is the third vintage of this wine by incumbent winemaker Emul Ross (his predecessor Hannes Storm having made 2009 and 2010 before production was suspended for a while) and it is his most assured offering to date. Enticing aromatics of pear, peach, citrus, blossom, a subtle herbal note and sea breeze while the palate shows pure fruit, zippy acidity and a pithy finish. It’s elegant, delicate even and beautifully poised.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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Ashbourne Pinotage 2018
Price: R760
From a different block to that which produced the 2015 through 2017 vintages and consequently slightly different in flavour profile. Stems added back for additional spice. Matured for 10 months in 400-litre barrels, 40% new. Plum and black cherry, a floral note, dried herbs and some reduction in the background. Slightly more heft and grip to the palate compared to its predecessors although by no means overdone – great fruit definition and bright acidity before a dry finish.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.

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