De Kat se Snor current releases

Gerhard Smith’s regular job is at Creation in Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge but he also makes wine under his own label called Die Kat se Snor (which translates as “The Cat’s Whiskers and honours his grandfather Kat, who used to wear an impressive moustache). Tasting notes and ratings for the current releases as follows:

Die Kat se Snor Sauvignon Blanc 2021
Price: R125
From Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge grapes. Fermented and matured for five months in older oak. Dramatic aromatics of blackcurrant, citrus and granadilla plus flinty reduction while the palate has a dense core of fruit, driving acidity and a pithy finish – an arresting wine.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Die Kat se Snor Chardonnay 2021
Price: R185
Grapes from the Overberg property just outside the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge ward that Creation owns. Matured for 10 months in 500-litre barrels, 50% new. Citrus, oatmeal and a hint of reduction on the nose while the palate is extraordinarily dense fruit matched by piercing acidity, the finish intensely pithy. Pure and powerful.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Die Kat se Snor Cinsault 2021
Price: R125
From Stellenbosch grapes. 30% whole-bunch fermentation. Pretty aromatics including rose, fynbos, cranberry and a hint of spice while the palate shows pure fruit, zippy acidity and fine tannins, the finish nicely dry. A charming wine that is immediately accessible but equally not too facile.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Die Kat se Snor Pinot Noir 2018
Price: R285
From Overberg grapes. 50% whole-bunch fermentation. Red and black berries, musk and some meatiness. Relatively broad and smooth textured on the palate – already quite mellow and accessible.

CE’s rating: 89/100.

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