Silverthorn new releases

The emergence of serious wines from usually quite humble Colombard continues with Silverthorn, the Cap Classique-dedicated cellar based in Robertson, having made something from this variety for the first time. Tasting notes and ratings for this and other new releases are as follows:

Silverthorn River Dragon NV
Approximate retail price: R190
From old-vine Colombard harvested towards the end of February 2019. Spontaneously fermented in old 500-litre acacia barrels. 12 months on the lees after secondary fermentation. Pear, apple, thatch and some earthiness on the nose while the palate is lean with a fine mousse, racy acidity and a salty finish – great as an aperitif.

Silverthorn The Green Man 2018
Price: R238
100% Chardonnay. A small portion undergoing barrel fermentation. A minimum of 24 months on the lees. Some flinty reduction before citrus, peach and a hint of yeasty complexity on the nose. Good fruit definition to go with a fine mousse, bright acidity and a super-dry finish. Wonderfully taut as usual.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

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Silverthorn Jewel Box 2017
Price: R297.50
70% Chardonnay and 30% Pinot Noir. Fermentation of the Chardonnay split between stainless steel tank and barrel. Blend includes a reserve portion of Chardonnay which has spent 12 months in old oak. A minimum of 41 months on the lees. Complex aromatics of honey, biscuit, ripe orange, strawberry and even some nutty, spicy notes. The palate is rich with a creamy mousse and a gently savoury finish.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.

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