Leeu Passant new releases

Having established themselves in the Swartland, Chris and Andrea Mullineux met Indian businessman Analjit Singh in 2013 and united by a shared ambition to operate at the highest level. Leeu Passant was born, enabling a focus on notable sites beyond the Swartland.

Franschhoek Semillon 2025
Price: R525

From a vineyard planted in 1963. Matured for 12 months in amphorae. Pronounced but not untoward reduction precedes lime, lemon, grapefruit and hints of peach. The palate is light-footed yet assured – pure fruit, keen acidity and a dry, persistent finish. More energetic than is typical for the variety. Alc: 12.5%.

CE’s rating: 94 | Distinctive

Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2024
Price: R1,045

From a Helderberg vineyard at 400m, close to the ocean. Matured for 22 months in 225-litre barrels, 30% new. Aromatics of blossom, citrus, herbs and touches of vanilla and reduction. The palate is poised and exacting – clean fruit, striking acidity and a pithy finish. Elegant but by no means underdon. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 96 | Classic

Wellington Cinsault 2024
Price: R840

From a vineyard planted in 1900. 100% crushed whole-clusters. Matured for 20 months in 500-litre barrels. Subtle aromatics of cranberry, cherry, plum, fynbos and a little reduction. The palate shows depth without excess – concentrated fruit, bright acidity and a super-dry finish. Tannins are notably firm yet fine. Composed and very well built. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 96 | Classic

Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
Price: R525

From the Helderberg. Matured partly in 500-litre barrels (one-third new) before extended time in larger oak. Red and black berries, violets and herbs on the nose. The palate shows clarity of fruit, lively acidity and fine tannins. Sappy and relatively unforced, eschewing the heft of more orthodox examples. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 94 | Distinctive

The Leeu Passant 2023
Price: R2,160

60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Cabernet Franc, 10% Cinsault. Matured for 11 months in 500-litre barrels followed by 11 months in foudre. Perfumed aromatics of red berries, rose, herbs and spice. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity and fine tannins, the palate is elegant rather than imposing, though its underlying structure is quietly assured. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 95 | Serious

Radicales Libres 2020

Price: R1,045

From the Helderberg. Matured for five years in 500-litre barrels. Complex aromatics showing rancio, nuts, lemon and green apple. The palate is lean and incisive with arresting acidity and an intensely saline finish. Savoury and full of character. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 95 | Distinctive

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