McFarlane Capitoline Wolf new releases

The 2020 vintage saw independent winemaker Alexandra McFarlane in an experimental mood, working with varieties from various sites, the outcome being two wines forming a new range by the name of “Capitoline Wolf”.

McFarlane Capitoline Wolf White 2020
Price: R120
60% Chenin Blanc from old vines on the Helderberg, 40% Semillon from Franschhoek. Spontaneously fermented and matured for nine months in old oak. Complex aromatics of pear, peach, citrus, hay, and herbs plus a hint of waxy character while the palate has good depth of fruit, some nice texture, well-integrated acidity, and a gently savoury finish. This has both poise and nuance – greatly over-delivers at the price.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

McFarlane Capitoline Wolf Red 2020
Price: R120
Made from Darling Cinsault, winemaking involved 100% whole-bunch fermentation before maturation lasting nine months in old oak. The nose is very pretty with notes of red currant, raspberry, pomegranate and rose plus a hint of spice while the palate is light to the point of evanescent – pure fruit, zippy acidity, and fine tannins. Rather charming.

CE’s rating: 89/100.

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