Olifantsberg Soul of the Mountain new releases

Olifantsberg lies on the mountain of the same name just outside Worcester. Elizma Visser has been incumbent as viticulturist and winemaker here since 2015, joined by husband Ferdi in 2020, and they have now released two top-end wines designed to “showcase our unique micro climate and capture the essence of this place”. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Olifantsberg Soul of the Mountain The Matriarch 2019
Price: R320
72% Roussanne, 20% Grenache and 8% Chenin Blanc – grapes sourced from across seven different vineyards, picking staggered from two to six times. Each component matured separately in oak for seven months before blending and a further three months in foudre. The nose shows citrus, peach, honey, some waxy character and spice while the palate is rich, round and thick-textured with tangy acidity and a savoury finish. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Olifantsberg Soul of the Mountain The Bull 2018
Price: R320
44% Syrah, 22% Carignan, 20% Mourvèdre and 16% Grenache. 30% whole-bunch fermentation. Each component matured separately in oak for seven months before blending and a further six months of maturation. Alluring aromatics of red and black berries, floral perfume, fynbos and spice. The palate shows good fruit definition and depth, bright acidity and powdery tannins, the finish nicely dry. Well balanced, the different components combining to good effect. Alc: 14%.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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