Each year, our country's winemakers, producers and oenophiles, as well as South African wine fans around the world, eagerly await Tim Atkin's Special RSA Report.
Renowned Master of Wine, Tim Atkins shares “the inside track” to South Africa’s wine industry tasting a record-breaking 2,282 wines this year from 433 wineries. We are elated with our scores with 6 of our wines across our ranges achieving 90 Points or more. Our recently certified Old-Vine Chardonnay wines from the Haute Collection are of particular note as the only Old-Vine Chardonnays from Franschhoek.
“I’ve walked the vineyards, talked to the producers and tasted the wines to provide you with unique advice and insights. Looking back over the last decade, I’m constantly amazed at the progress the industry has made. Everyone should take great pride in brand South Africa.”
~ TIM ATKIN, MW
Haute Cabrière Wine Ratings
Wines made for life's moment
Tim Atkin: 94 Points
Amphorae (clay vessels) were used to age this wine. These vessels act as a traditional barrel but don’t add any flavours in the maturing of the wine. Only 650 bottles were released and each an expression of terroir.
Tim Atkin: 92 Points
Created from this old vineyard, aging and oak are introduced for a heavier, silkier wine with hints of butterscotch and almonds taking over the lighter & fruiter notes with more body and complex layers.
Tim Atkin: 93 Points
High density planting of 1m x 1m means the bunches are small, the berries equally so and the intensity of fruit and flavour rather phenomenal. Complex with new oak, not only adding an outstanding platform to showcase vintage but adding structure to ensure this wine impresses with each sip.
Tim Atkin: 90 Points
The results are a full-bodied blend where both varietals shine. These two very different personalities come together in a perfect union and celebration of what comes after that – family.
Tim Atkin: 90 Points
An evolution in our exploration of Chardonnay, find delicate orange blossoms and grapefruit on the nose, with citrus, melon and toasted notes on the palate supported by good structure and integrated oak. With a lively acidity, expect a fresh finish.
Tim Atkin: 90 Points
Created in the traditional French method of bottle fermentation known as Cap Classique in South Africa. Enjoy fresh lime and orange characteristics with hints of oak on the nose. The extended maturation period 60 months ensures a soft, complex palate and a fine mousse.
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