Longridge new releases

Why have South African wines of the 1960s and 1970s proven to be so long-lived? Jasper Raats of Longridge in Stellenbosch is a staunch advocate of farming biodynamically and he puts forward the provocative theory that the use of agrochemicals that came about after the end of World War II was still relatively new, the impact on vineyard health not as far-reaching as it subsequently became.

The top-end wines from Longridge are for special occasions and not just because of their steep pricing. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:   

Clos du Ciel 2018
Price: R715
Grapes from the nine-clone vineyard planted by the renowned John Platter some 30 years ago on the Helderberg.  Matured for 24 months, two-thirds in barrel, of which around 50% were new, and one-third in amphorae. A compelling nose of citrus, oatmeal and some leesy complexity while the palate shows great depth of fruit – massive volume, mouth-filling and thick-textured – but also beautifully balanced and not at all clumsy. No shortage of acidity but this is well integrated, and the finish is long and pithy. Layers and layers of flavour.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Maandans Pinotage 2020
Price: R1 200

Grapes from a 1972 vineyard. Matured for 18 months in French oak, 50% new. Beguiling aromatics of red cherries, cranberries, flowers and fynbos plus the vaguest hint of oak spice. The palate is light and fresh with super-fine tannins. It’s a rather beautiful wine – delicate and restrained but not entirely underdone or ephemeral, 13% alcohol providing just the right amount of kick.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Misterie Merlot 2017
Price: R2000

Includes some 5 – 10% Cabernet Franc.  Matured for 24 months in French oak. Cranberry, cassis, fresh herbs, violets and earth on the nose while the palate is medium bodied with good fruit definition, plenty of freshness and fine-grained tannins. Very nicely observed.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.