Craven new releases

Mick Craven who makes wine under the eponymous label along with wife Jeanine describes 2023 as “challenging” on account of rain throughout the growing season – they picked only 40% of the Polkadraai Hills vineyard that supplies their Chardonnay, the rest lost to powdery mildew (happily, however, the resulting wine seems to have a little extra concentration) while the Cabernet Sauvignon wasn’t considered good enough to release and it remains to be seen how many other producers will be as resolute. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Chardonnay 2023
Price: R265
Matured for seven months in older 500-litre barrels. Lemon and blossom on the nose. The palate is harmonious with good fruit concentration and bright acidity before a savoury finish. Hardly showy (alcohol is still a low 11.95%) but not quite as stripped down as some vintages – just the right amount of creamy texture.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Karibib Chenin Blanc 2023
Price: R265
Grapes from a Polkadraai Hills vineyard planted in 1982. Matured for nine months in concrete. Subtle notes of peach, orange and potpourri on the nose while the palate is medium bodied (alcohol is 12.7%) and tightly wound – the acidity well integrated and the finish gently savoury.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

The Firs Syrah 2023
Price: R295
Grapes from Devon Valley. 100% whole-bunch fermentation in tank, while this was first vintage to be matured in concrete. Red berries, a hint of rose, fynbos and white pepper on the nose. The palate is particularly light and fresh compared to previous vintages, the tannins having a nicely powdery texture. Alc: 13.15%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

The Cinsault and Pinot Gris from the 2023 vintage were reviewed here.

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