Nomad current releases

Kosie van der Merwe was at one point winemaker at Elgin Ridge (this property subsequently sold to Radford Dale) but he and his family relocated to Mosel, Germany in early 2020. He, however, still makes small-batch wines from Elgin grapes under the Nomad label. Tasting notes and ratings for the current releases as follows:

Franc Cabernet Franc 2021
Price: R280
40% whole-bunch fermentation. Lifted and rather pretty aromatics of red cherry, some leafiness and fresh herbs while the palate is light and fresh with fine tannins. Alcohol is 12.5% and I like the general austerity of this wine although some might find it insubstantial.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Sarel Syrah 2021
Price: R350
50% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 10 months in large old oak. Red berries, rose and white pepper on the nose while the palate is light-bodied but flavourful with fresh acidity and fine tannins.  Pure and zippy with dry, slightly salty finish.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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