Kaapzicht new releases

You might be inclined to think of Kaapzicht, the Bottelary property owned by the Steytler family, as “boutique” but you’d be wrong – there are currently 130ha under vineyard and the cellar processes just under 800 tonnes of grapes a year on average. Fourth-generation Danie Jnr and team are busy re-energising their offering, the mid-level “Terroir” range, for instance, increasingly incorporating wines made in a New Wave style.

Kaapzicht Kliprug Chenin Blanc 2021
Price: R200
Grapes from a 1982 vineyard. Spontaneously fermented and matured for 10 months in 300-, 500-, and 800-litre barrels, 40% new. Some flinty reduction before citrus and yellow peach plus vanilla and spice on the nose while the palate has good fruit concentration and tangy acidity before a savoury finish. It’s got weight and flavour but remains a little disjointed at this stage. Total production: 16 500 bottles.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Kaapzicht Skuinsberg Cinsaut 2021
Price: R200
Grapes predominantly from a 1988 vineyard but also includes 10% Pinotage. Fermented in tank (about a third whole-berry) and matured for 10 months in retired Kliprug barrels. Some floral fragrance, red and black cherry, plums, earth and spice on the nose while the palate combines succulence with tannins that are just grippy enough. Good fruit density and bright acidity, the finish nicely dry. Substantial, balanced and long. Alcohol: 12.5%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Kaapzicht Skraalhans Pinotage 2021
Price: R150
Winemaking as above – Danie Steytler Jnr’s attempt at a less hardcore version of the always controversial variety. Enticing aromatics of red cherry, fynbos and spice while the palate is medium rather than light in body with good freshness and fine tannins (alcohol is 13%). It’s elegant but equally not short of vinosity and should have broad appeal. Alcohol: 13%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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