Hogan Wines new releases

Two new wines now join the range from Jocelyn Hogan, specifically a multi-site Chardonnay and a Cabernet Franc, bringing the total number to four. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Hogan The Galvanised Chardonnay 2018
Approximate retail price: R255
41% of grapes from Elandskloof, 37% Polkadraai and 23% Banghoek. Th nose shows lemon, a hint of vanilla and intriguing reductive notes– think struck match but also play dough! Good fruit concentration matched by a lovely line of acidity before a long, gently savoury finish. Low in alcohol at 12.5% but not too severe, this has plenty of detail.

Editor’s rating: 94/100.

A little better all the time.

Hogan Chenin Blanc 2018
Approximate retail price: R345
From Swartland grapes. Some flinty reduction before herbs, citrus, peach as well as a slight waxy note on the nose. The palate shows excellent focus with again very good fruit concentration and fresh acidity before a salty finish. Energetic and flavourful, this wine seems to get more refined with each passing vintage.

Editor’s rating: 95/100.

Hogan Mirror for the Sun Cabernet Franc 2018
Approximate retail price: R345
Grapes from the lower Helderberg. A pretty nose with notes of red fruit, violets and fresh herbs including a touch of mint. Surprisingly light-bodied given an alcohol of 14%, this is already very approachable.

Editor’s rating: 90/100.

Hogan Divergent 2018
Approximate retail price: R390
34% Wellington Carignan, 34% Helderberg Cinsault and 32% Polkadraai Cabernet Sauvignon. Red and black fruit to go with floral perfume, herbs and spice on the nose. Juicy and fresh on the palate with crunchy tannins. A slightly unusual flavour profile but wears this well – plenty of interest.

Editor’s rating: 92/100.