Kruger Family Wines Old Vines Cinsault 2017

Too lovely.

Johan Kruger, previously of Sterhuis in Stellenbosch, now has his own label called simply Kruger Family Wines and the first bottling to catch the eye is the Old Vines Cinsault 2017. Grapes from a 64-year-old Piekenierskloof vineyard, fermentation involved 25% whole bunch and maturation lasted six months in older small French oak barrels.

On the nose, a hint of reduction before red and black cherry and pomegranate plus hints of fynbos, earth and spice. The palate has more depth than many other examples of this variety but it’s hardly rich or weighty and there’s no faulting balance or length. It’s immensely appealing if still very primary right now and should only gain in complexity over the next 12 to 36 months. Price: R165 a bottle.

Editor’s rating: 91/100.

Find our South African wine ratings database here.