Kottabos new releases

Kottabos is not a rare species of shrub indigenous to the Western Cape but rather the name of an ancient Greek drinking game, adopted by Reenen Borman of Boschkloof for his range of three wines that he makes from grapes grown on the granitic soils of Polkadraai Hills. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Chenin Blanc 2024
Price: R190
60% skin contact for six days, followed by 11 months of maturation in older French oak barrels. Subtle notes of peach, apricot, and orange on the nose. The palate offers impressive fruit density and tangy acidity, leading to a savoury finish. Relatively lean yet intensely flavourful, with great focus—nothing too wild or funky. More-ish and wonderfully refreshing. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Pinotage 2024
Price: R190
100% whole-bunch fermented and matured for 11 months in older French oak. The nose opens with an intense floral perfume, layered with notes of plum, dark cherry, fynbos, earth, and spice. The palate is vibrant, showcasing juicy fruit, bright acidity, and firm yet well-integrated tannins. The finish is long and subtly saline. Full of personality—slightly angular, but in a compelling way. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Grenache Syrah 2024
Price: R190
74% Grenache, 26% Syrah. Cranberry, raspberry, black cherry, rose, fynbos, and white pepper mark the nose. The palate is light-bodied, understated, and entirely charming with pure fruit, fresh acidity, and fine, powdery tannins. Lucid and precise, though perhaps lacking the weight for true gravitas. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.