Luddite new releases

Luddite Wines as made by Niels and Penny Verburg date back to 2000 and this brand name, with its connotations of an uncompromising commitment to craft over technology, couldn’t be more apt. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Luddite Chenin Blanc 2022
Price: R675
Total production in this vintage is 2 500 bottles, grapes drawn from a block planted in 2017 and now in full production as well as a well-established 2009 block. Left on the skins after fermentation for 22 days before maturation lasting 12 months in older oak.

Many different aspects to the nose including flinty reduction, potpourri, peach, orange and ginger. The palate is lean (alcohol a mere 11.9%) and yet not excessively hard or aggressive. Taut with peppy acidity but also lots of flavour. A direct and arresting wine.

CE’s rating: 95/100.

Luddite Shiraz 2020
Price: R1 010
Total production still reduced at 6 000 bottles as vines continued to recover from drought. 10% stalks added back before maturation lasting 24 months in barrel, 15% new. Small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvèdre added to fill out the mid-palate. Red and black berries, fynbos, lilies and white pepper on the nose. The palate is juicy and luscious – great depth of fruit, soft but sufficient acidity and powdery tannins. Opulent, as always, but still retaining balance. Alc: 14.65%

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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