Lateganskop No. 102 Dessert Wine

Remembering Oupa.

We all know that Breedekloof produces some delicious fortifieds, but Lateganskop makes one with a difference. Willem Hendrik Lategan, grandfather of current winemaker Heinrich, lived for 102 years and hence the name.

It’s from Hanepoot and consists of a blend predominantly from the 2008 and 2009 vintages but also including a 15% portion from some 20 years ago, causing the Wine and Spirit Board to refuse classification of the wine as varietal specific because they couldn’t be sure that the older portion was indeed from Hanepoot.

Amber in colour, the nose shows top notes of potpourri and rose before peach, apricot and spice. On the palate, it is luscious and weighty with great flavour intensity. Oily in texture and with a pleasant oxidative quality. The finish meanwhile is fiery in the best sense, the alcohol by volume being 16%. An oddity to be celebrated. Price: R120 per 500ml bottle.

Winemag rating: 90/100.