Metzer new releases

What is the defining character of old vine Chenin Blanc? Some might say “concentration” and the 2020s from Wade Metzer have this in buckets. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Metzer Montane Chenin Blanc 2020
Price: R330
Grapes from a 1964 vineyard on the foothills of the Helderberg. Matured for nine months in older oak. Yellow peach, orange, ginger, earth and some leesy complexity on the nose. Great depth and texture on the palate – rich and forceful but concludes dry and slightly bitter.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Metzer Maritime Chenin Blanc 2020
Price: R330
Grapes from a 1980 vineyard situated close to False Bay. Matured for nine months in older oak. Lime, lemon and apple plus some yeasty, waxy complexity. Rich but balanced thanks to a good line of acidity – very flavourful, the finish deeply savoury.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

Metzer Cinsault 2021
Price: R330
Grapes from a 1957 vineyard on the foothills of the Helderberg. 30% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for nine months in older oak. The nose shows red cherry, plum, earth and spice with subtle notes of flowers and fynbos in the background. The palate is well balanced with good fruit definition, bright acidity and powdery tannins. Not without weight, the finish gently savoury.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.