Lokaia new releases

Lokaia, to quote this Franschhoek label’s Insta bio, sees Craig McNaught of Stony Brook and Clayton Reabow of Môreson, “trying to make sense of Franschhoek’s essence”. They’ve embraced early picking and vinification in clay pot and the wines continue to capture the imagination. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Pound of Flesh Semillon 2023
Price: R250
Grapes from the Bo-Hoek. Skins and stems added back; fermented in amphora, topped with olive oil. Lime, lemon and just a hint of orange, floral perfume and hay on the nose. Great fruit concentration and lively acidity and a savoury, not unduly grippy finish. Rather elegant – Hunter Valley via Franschhoek. Alcohol is 11%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

The Sandman Chardonnay 2023
Price: R295
Grapes from a Môreson vineyard on the Franschhoek valley floor. Winemaking as above. Lemon plus subtle waxy, leesy notes on the nose. The palate has good fruit concentration and a relatively creamy texture given an alcohol of just 12%, bright acidity and a gently savoury finish.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Call of the Void Cabernet Franc 2023
Price: R375
Grapes from a vineyard on the Franschhoek Pass mountains and labelled as Du Toitskop Peak. Beautiful aromatics of rose, cranberry, red cherry and just a touch of fresh herbs. The palate is vivid and poised – light-bodied with pure fruit, fresh acidity and super-fine tannins. Alc: 94/100.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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