Shannon Sanctuary Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2015

Sheer artistry.

The Sanctuary Peak Sauvignon Blanc 2015 from Shannon Vineyards in Elgin was among the 20 finalists in the recent FNB Sauvignon Blanc Top 10 competition but was ultimately not a winner. Let that not deter you – it’s an absolute cracker.

Made by Gordon and Nadia Newton Johnson, the wine includes 8% Semillon, spontaneously fermented and matured for three months in French oak, 100% new.

There are top notes of fynbos and a talcum powder-like dustiness on the nose before pear and white peach, a hint of black currant and a little gun smoke. The palate is very pure, the fruit definition excellent. This is a substantial wine without being weighty or too thick textured and really detailed, so rare when it comes to Sauvignon Blanc. The finish is long and dry, a little extra tug provided by select parcels undergoing a period of skin contact. Price: R100 a bottle.

#WinemagRating: 94/100.