Vulpes new releases

Nuschka de Vos, who grew up on a farm, began her career as a vineyard hand under renowned viticulturist Rosa Kruger at L’Ormarins after leaving school – Kruger has remained a mentor ever since. She went on to earn a BSc in Viticulture and Oenology from Stellenbosch University in 2012, followed by a series of harvests both locally and abroad. During her six years at the biodynamic producer Reyneke, she began to gain real prominence before leaving in November 2021 to launch her own label. Tasting notes and ratings for the new releases as follows:

Chama Chenin Blanc 2024
Price: R430

Grapes from two Paardeberg vineyards, one planted in 1986 and the other in 1996. The nose is subtle and complex with a little flinty reduction preceding pear, peach, quince and citrus plus floral perfume and hay. Great fruit concentration and well-integrated acidity before a savoury finish. Pure and precise, tightly wound yet not too underdone. Alc: 12%.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Velox Chenin Blanc 2024
Price: R430
Grapes from a previously neglected Citrusdal Mountain vineyard approximately 20 years old that De Vos is busy restoring – production has grown from 300 bottles in 2023 to 1,200 bottles now. Soft citrus, peach, earth and a touch of reduction on the nose while the palate is rich and savoury – dense fruit matched by punchy acidity, a slight bitter quality to the finish adding intrigue. Alc: 12.85%.

CE’s rating: 96/100.

Cana Cabernet Sauvignon 2024
Price: R430
Grapes from the biodynamic Polkadraai property that is home to Reyneke Wines, the vineyard not classified as organic as it’s affected by spray drift from neighbours. Matured in old oak. Intensely floral top notes – wilted rose and violets – before cassis, olive, a flash of mint, and earth. Excellent depth of fruit, fresh acidity and firm but not astringent tannins, the finish long and dry. That much better realised than 2023. Alc: 13.52%

CE’s rating: 94/100.

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