The Foundry new releases

The Foundry was established in 2001 by Chris Williams, then at Meerlust, and James Reid, operations director for Accolade Wines in South Africa.

The first vintage of The Foundry was vinified at the Myburghs of Paarl winery Joostenberg. There was no room in their barrel room, and so they were accommodated in the old blacksmiths’ workshop – and “The Foundry” was born.

Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

The Foundry Viognier 2021
Grapes from Stellenbosch. Fermented and matured for seven months in second-fill barrels, half inoculated and the other left to undergo spontaneous fermentation. Honeysuckle, yellow apple, peach and some leesy complexity on the nose while the palate is nicely contained and rather less blowsy than wines from this variety can often be – good fruit concentration and punchy acidity, the finish savoury. Harmonious and layered.

CE’s rating: 93/100.

The Foundry Roussanne 2021
Grapes for this vintage from Voor Paardeberg whereas previously from Stellenbosch. 75% fermented in older barrels and 25% in terracotta amphorae, maturation lasting eight months. The nose appears oxidative with notes of cut apple, peach, spice and some yeasty character while the palate is rich and broad – textured and flavourful.

CE’s rating: 92/100.

The Foundry Grenache Blanc 2021 rated 95/100 on review in April 2022 – see here.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.