Daschbosch new releases

There were 12 654ha under bine in Breedekloof at the end of 2023, more than either Stellenbosch or Swartland. One of the more significant companies in the area is UniWine, growers responsible for cultivating some 2 800 ha of vineyard. Is the business model premised on big-volume and low-price? Daschbosch is one of UniWine’s core brands and under this label, head winemaker WS Visagie gets to craft some small-batch wines, either old vine or experimental, that sell at more premium prices. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:   

Daschbosch Avon Clairette Blanche 2023
Price: R350
From a vineyard planted in 1977. A subtle leesy note before pear, peach and citrus plus talcum powder and hay on the nose. Light and yet not without texture, moderate acidity, the finish gently savoury. As ever, understated and intriguing. Alc: 12.5%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Daschbosch Skin Contact 2024
Price: R200
80% Chenin Blanc, 20% Muscat d’Alexandrie. No added sulphur. Left on the skins for three months. Expressive aromatics of potpourri, peach, orange and spice. Sweet and juicy on entry, the finish gently savoury. Appealing if not as striking or imposing as some skin contact wines. Alc: 13.3%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Daschbosch Mossiesdrift Steen 2023 (R220 a bottle) rated 90 in the Prescient Chenin Blanc Report earlier this year – see here.

Daschbosch The Mill Cinsault 2023
Price: R220
Grapes from a block planted in 1989. Fermented in stainless steel tank, a third undergoing carbonic maceration. Red cherry, strawberry and orange plus hints of herbs and earth. Pure and zippy with fine tannins, the finish nicely dry.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.

Read more on Daschbosch here.