Rebel Rebel maiden releases

Kayleigh Hattingh, assistant winemaker at Kaapzicht in Bottelary, reckons that the terroir of the ward is under-rated and has launched her own label called Rebel Rebel (she says she’s a big Bowie fan) with a view to making wines that are a “transparent and fluent” representation of site.

Rebel Rebel Old Vines Colombar 2021
Price: R235

Grapes from a vineyard planted in 1986. Eight hours of maceration before pressing and inoculation with a pied de cuve (a naturally cultivated fermentation starter). Maturation lasting seven months in 400- and 500-litre barrels. The nose shows top notes of grass and thatch before guava, peach and apple while the palate shows fruit that’s sweet and dense to go with tangy acidity, the finish having a gently savoury, slightly peppery quality.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Rebel Rebel Syrah 2020
Price: R235

35% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured for 10 months in 500-litre barrels. Red berries, dried herbs, olive brine and white pepper on the nose while the palate is medium bodied (alcohol is 13.5%) with fresh acidity and soft, powdery tannins. Plenty flavourful with just the right amount of fleshiness about it.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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