Van Niekerk new releases

Husband and wife Albert and Anmar van Niekerk – he of Crystallum, she of Gabriëlskloof – admit to having somewhat neglected their own label since becoming parents to twin daughters. The new releases, however, show the precision you’d expect from these two working in tandem.

Goue Rif Chardonnay 2024
Price: R310

W.O. Overberg. Matured for 10 months in older oak. Pear, peach, citrus and a little leesy complexity on the nose. Concentrated fruit and well-integrated acidity, finishing savoury. Poised, with nothing out of place.

CE’s rating: 93 | Classic

Sonwater 2024
Price: R310

W.O. Swartland. 90% Chenin Blanc, 10% Clairette Blanche. The nose displays citrus, pineapple and some leesy complexity while the palate is powerful and thick textured, big acidity bringing balance, the finish savoury. Alc: 13.5%.

CE’s rating: 93 | Distinctive

Rebellie Grenache Noir 2023
Price: R310

W.O. Bot River. 40% whole-bunch fermentation. Red currant, cherry and musk on the nose while the palate has well delineated fruit, fresh acidity and powdery tannins. Elegant, delicate even, and admirably composed. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rarting: 93 | Distinctive

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