Thistle & Weed new releases

Etienne Terblanche, the viticulturist partner in the Thistle & Weed venture has worked in Portugal while winemaker Stephanie Wiid has visited on several occasions engendering a shared admiration for the wines of this country and they were therefore keen that there should be some “Iberian flavour” to the two blends they make locally. Tasting notes and ratings for the two new releases as follows:

Thistle & Weed Khakibos 2020
Price: R250

41% Verdelho from Stellenbosch, 37% Chenin Blanc from Paarl, 12% Palomino from Piekenierskloof and 10% Fernão Pires from outside Worcester. Exotic aromatics of pear, peach, grapefruit and pineapple plus earth and a slight waxy note. The palate has dense fruit but equally plenty of drive, the finish long and savoury. A fascinating wine with lots going on.

CE’s rating: 94/100.

Thistle & Weed Nastergal 2020
Price: R250

56% Tempranillo, 11% Alicante Bouschet, 11% Tinta Francisca, 10% Touriga Nacional, 6% Souzao and 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, all from Stellenbosch. The nose is very fragrant with notes of red and black berries, flowers and spice while the palate is fruity and flavourful – juicy and fresh, the tannins none too astringent. A real crowd-pleaser.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

Check out our South African wine ratings database.

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