Tembela Wines new releases

Banele Vakele, assistant winemaker at Savage Wines, has released his second vintage of his own wines under the Tembela label. Securing a long-term supply of grapes is something of a challenge as this stage so whereas his 2020 white was from Verdelho, it is now a Chenin Blanc and his Syrah, previously from Stellenbosch grapes is now sourced from Constanstia and Swartland. No matter as he again brings a deft touch to the winemaking. Tasting notes and ratings as follows:

Tembela Chenin Blanc 2021
Price: R235
From a Durbanville vineyard nearly 50 years old. Matured for nine months in concrete egg and older oak. Citrus and yellow peach plus hints of honeysuckle and fynbos on the nose while the palate has good volume and tangy acidity – rich but not cloying or sweet, just very nicely balanced with a long finish.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

Tembela Syrah 2021
Price: R255
40% stems added back at fermentation. Matured for 10 months in older 500-litre barrels. Heady aromatics of red and black berries, lavender, fynbos and pepper. Good fruit expression matched by lemon-like acidity and fine tannins. Smooth textured in the best sense and harmonious, this makes for rewarding drinking.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

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