The Rhebok 2013

Rhebokskloof in Paarl was acquired by brothers Albie ad Siebrits Laker of ASLA Construction in 2006, the property positioned as an all-purpose winelands destination able to cater for weddings and conferences plus a spa, tented camp, mountain biking and horse riding on offer.

Some 38ha of 160ha are under vineyard with Rolanie Lotz in charge of winemaking and Francois Naudé, previously of L’Avenir, acting as consultant since late 2012.

Based on a recent tasting, Rhebokskloof seems most suited to Rhône varieties, the stand-out wines among current releases as follows:

Rhenbokskloof The MGS 2013
Price: R125
45% Mourvèdre, 31% Grenache, 24% Shiraz. Components matured separately for 12 months and then blended before being returned to barrel for another six month, 20% new oak. A hint of reduction before red and black fruit, vanilla and earth. Pure fruit, slightly tart acidity and fine, spicy tannins – has character.

#WinemagRating: 88/100.

Rhebokskloof Vineyard Selection Shiraz 2013
Price: R125
Matured for 18 months in French oak, 30% new. A hint of reduction before red and black fruit, some meatiness and black pepper. Pure fruit, fresh acidity and fine tannins – well balanced.

#WinemagRating: 89/100.

Rhebokskloof Mountain Reserve Black Marble Hill Syrah 2012
Price: R265
Matured for 24 months in French oak, 100% new. Red and black fruit, fynbos, smoked meat, spice and white pepper – good typicity. Medium bodied with fresh acidity and rather firm tannins making for a somewhat drying finish.

#WinemagRating: 91/100.

Head of the herd.

The Rhebok 2013
Price: R475
45% Syrah, 40% Pinotage, 15% Mourvèdre. Matured for 24 months in French oak, 100% new. Red and black fruit and appealing herbal note on the nose. Full bodied with plenty of upfront sweet fruit but this offset by fresh acidity and nicely crunchy tannins, the finish properly dry – plenty of drive.

#WinemagRating: 92/100.