Luddite new releases

Niels and Penny Verburg first produced wine under the Luddite label from their Bot River property in 2000. Their daughter, Alice, joined them in 2017, carrying forward their steadfast commitment to low-intervention winemaking and a resistance to excessive technology. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Saboteur White 2024
Price: R205
73% Chenin Blanc, 13% Blanc Fumé, 12% Viognier, and, for the first time, 2% Semillon – surced from vineyards across the Overberg. The Chenin Blanc and Viognier spent approximately a week on the skin, all components maturation in old oak, except for 30% of the Chenin, which went to tank.

The nose bursts with honeysuckle, tropical fruit, orange, peach, apricot, hay, and herbal nuances. The palate is rich and textured, yet balanced, with tangy acidity providing drive (alcohol: 12.37%). A gently pithy finish enhances its food-friendly appeal.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Saboteur Red 2022
Price: R285
52% Shiraz, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Mourvèdre, and 12% Grenache, matured for 16 months in barrel, with 10% new oak.

Heady aromatics of cranberry, cassis, floral perfume, and some herbal nuances, alongside hints of cured meat, pepper, and spice. The palate shows concentrated fruit matched by bright acidity and crunchy tannins. Not the product of winemaking that plays it safe or strives for precision, but rather one that is thoughtfully crafted and undeniably compelling. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Luddite Chenin Blanc 2024
Price: R730
30% left on the skins for 30 days, then matured for 12 months in old oak. The nose intrigues with citrus, stone fruit, potpourri, cinnamon, and ginger, along with a subtle waxy complexity. The palate is lean yet flavourful – tightly wound with punchy acidity and a dry, lightly grippy finish. Alc: 11.37%.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

Luddite Shiraz 2022
Price: R1,040
Matured for 24 months in barrel, 15% new.  Classic aromas of black berries, lavender, fynbos, olive, pepper, and spice. The palate is succulent and sappy, where pure fruit meets vibrant acidity and crunchy tannins. Beautifully balanced and finely detailed – while Luddite Shiraz is often bold and burly, this vintage is expertly judged, whilst not becoming too delicate or restrained. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

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