Oldenburg Rondekop new releases

When will Oldenburg, situated in the prime Banghoek area of Stellenbosch, deliver on its true potential? The current releases of its top-end wines are pleasing enough but could do with more character and individuality. The accomplished Nic van Aarde, previously of Warwick, started there in late 2018 and it will be interesting to see what he can achieve. Tasting notes and ratings for the Rondekop range of wines as follows:

Oldenburg Rondekop Stone Axe Syrah 2017
Price: R390
Matured for 20 months in French oak, 50% new. Red and black fruit plus vanilla with a little floral perfume in the background. Dense, sweet and smooth textured on the palate. Splendidly decadent or overdone and tiring to drink? You decide…

CE’s rating: 89/100.

Oldenburg Rondekop Rhodium 2016
Price: R390
60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec, 10% Petit Verdot. Matured for 18 months in French oak, 100% new. Red and black fruit, a herbal note and toasty oak. Medium bodied with fresh acidity and fine tannins. A solid rather than inspired rendition of a Cape Bordeaux red blend.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

In and of itself.

Oldenburg Rondekop Per Se Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
Price: R450
Matured for 18 months in French oak, 100% new. Cassis, some leafiness and attractive oak-derived notes. Rich and full but nicely balanced. Smooth textured in the best sense, the finish long and dry. Proof once again that Banghoek is Cab country.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

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