TSW new releases

Given that more than three quarters of wine sells for under R50 per litre (the equivalent of R37,50 per 750ml bottle) domestically, it’s not appropriate to term wine in the R100 to R200 bracket “entry level”, but equally it’s nowhere near top-end with some consumers happy to pay an average of R1 375 a bottle at this year’s Cape Winemakers Guild Auction, for instance.

Presuming both some disposable income and more than a passing interest in the subject of wine, the TSW range from Trizanne Barnard of Trizanne Signature Wines is always highly suitable, tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

TSW Sauvignon Blanc 2022
Price: R140
Grapes from Benguela Cove. Matured on the lees in stainless steel tank for 11 months. Lime, white peach and a pleasant herbal note on the nose. Relatively rich – creamy texture, well coated acidity and dry finish. Alc: 13.31%.

CE’s rating: 91/100.

TSW Cinsault 2022
Price: R140
Grapes from Swartland producer Leeuwenkuil. 30% whole-bunch fermentation. Matured partly in tank and partly in barrel. Subtle aromatics of red cherry, plum, rose, spice and a hint of reduction. The palate has generous fruit, soft but sufficient acidity, the finish lightly tannic. Alc: 12.67%.

CE’s rating: 89/100.

TSW Syrah 2022
Price: R140
Grapes from same producer as the Cinsault. Matured in older 500-litre barrels. White-smoke reduction, red and black berries, fynbos, olive and black pepper. Good fruit delineation, bright acidity and nicely grippy tannins. Not super-intense but a wine that charms on account of its balance and nuance. Alc: 12.53%.

CE’s rating: 92/100.