Rhebokskloof Black Marble Hill current releases

Construction company ASLA acquired Paarl property Rhebokskloof in 2006 with a view to developing a boutique hotel as well as luxury residential units but rezoning approval has been an issue ever since and instead, they found themselves with a wine business that needed to justify itself.

Rolanie Lotz has been the winemaker since January 2007 but saw viticultural consultants come and go over the ensuing years. A more settled chapter seems to lie ahead with Martin Gebers, previously of Warwick, installed as general manager, and André Rousseau, who was so successful at Constantia Uitsig, the new viticulturist.

There is currently 36ha under the vineyard of which the major plantings are Shiraz, Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay. The top-end range is called Black Marble Hill, tasting notes and ratings for the current releases as follows:

Rhebokskloof Black Marble Hill Chardonnay 2019
Price: R250
Spontaneously fermented and matured in barrel, 50% new. A floral top note before citrus and peach plus hints of vanilla and spice on the nose. The palate is medium-bodied with fresh acidity and a gently savoury finish. Well balanced and nicely understated.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Rhebokskloof Black Marble Hill Syrah 2018
Price: R350
Matured for 24 months in French oak, 80% new. Blackberries, earth, pepper, and spice. The palate is full and flavourful – plenty of fruit depth, bright acidity, and firm tannins. Will find favour with those who like a powerful style.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Rhebokskloof Blanc de Blancs 2016 which placed Top 10 with a rating of 91 in the Prescient Cap Classique Report earlier this year has been repositioned under the Black Marble Hill label and now sells for R350 a bottle.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.

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