Focus on Chenin, Syrah, and Pinotage
South Africa has long been one of the most exciting wine regions in the world. With impressive diversity, distinctive grape varieties, and a unique terroir philosophy, its wines are conquering international rankings.
James Suckling, one of the world’s most renowned wine critics, has tasted and rated the finest wines from the 2022 and 2023 vintages in his latest South Africa Annual Tasting Report. The result: a tribute to the innovation and quality of South African wines.
Two vintages, one strong statement. James Suckling’s South Africa Annual Tasting Report highlights the impressive diversity of the country’s wines, despite climatic extremes. While the 2023 vintage was marked by strong weather contrasts, 2022 delivered wines with remarkable structure.
Traces of the 2023 landslides shape the mountains above the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley.
«A vintage of extremes» – this is how many winemakers describe 2023
Early-ripening varieties like Chenin Blanc and Syrah from Swartland benefited from cooler conditions in 2023, while 2022 produced wines with depth and elegance. Notable standouts include the Sadie Family Swartland Rotsbank 2023, a Chenin Blanc with aromas of slate, wild herbs, and lime zest, which received the highest rating ever awarded to a South African wine on JamesSuckling.com. Equally impressive is the Sadie Family Swartland Columella 2022, which, despite a hot vintage, captivates with a focused structure and floral notes.
Photo: Eben Sadie
The influence of Eben Sadie
Eben Sadie is considered an icon of the South African wine scene. His wines, such as Palladius and Columella, have inspired producers like Donovan Rall, Chris Alheit, Andrea Mullineux, and David Sadie. «We focus on freshness and moderate alcohol», emphasizes Donovan Rall of Rall Wines. Chris Alheit of Alheit Vineyards, on the other hand, prioritizes an authentic expression of terroir: «Our wines should tell the stories of the soils and climate.»
Many winemakers base their philosophy on getting the best out of old vines. David & Nadia are another example of this approach. «Old vines provide not only concentration but also elegance and finesse», explains David Sadie. Their focus on balance and natural expression is reflected in wines that often stand out for their pronounced minerality and refined acidity.
A prime example of premium red wines is Vilafonté, a winery specializing in exceptional Bordeaux-style blends. With wines like Series C and Series M, Vilafonté demonstrates how precise vineyard management and a clear vision can produce world-class wines. «Our goal is to create wines that reflect the character of the soil and the potential of the climate», says co-founder Mike Ratcliffe. Their wines are known for structure, depth, and remarkable aging potential.
Gavin Bruwer-Slabbert and Bruwer Raats with wines from Bruwer Vintners, Raats, and Mvemve Raats.
Photos: Donovan Rall and David & Nadia Wines.
Future Perspectives: Innovation and Adaptation
With climate change, many winemakers are investing in heat-tolerant varieties. Grenache is gaining importance, especially in Piekenierskloof. The Sadie Family Piekenierskloof Soldaat 2023 impresses with fresh acidity and red fruit aromas.
Winemakers like Adi Badenhorst of A.A. Badenhorst Family Wines are also focusing more on diversity: «We are experimenting with new grape varieties to withstand the heat while simultaneously enhancing quality.»
Photo: Hannes Storm.
Pinotage and Coastal Regions on the Rise
Pinotage is experiencing a renaissance. Winemakers like Wolf & Woman and Scions of Sinai focus on elegance: «We showcase the fragrant, delicate side of Pinotage», says Jolandi Fouché of Wolf & Woman. Bernhard Bredell of Scions of Sinai adds: «Pinotage has so much potential when given the space to be subtle and complex.»
Coastal regions like the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley remain hotspots for Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Hannes Storm of Storm Wines emphasizes: «Our goal is to reflect the terroir in every bottle.» His wines stand out for their precise freshness and clear structure, perfectly capturing the cool coastal climate.
Conclusion
South Africa’s wines are more than just bold and sun-kissed: they showcase terroir, elegance, and innovation. James Suckling’s top ratings are a powerful testament to this.
Find more details in the full report on JamesSuckling.com.
Article from «JamesSuckling.com», dated November 21, 2024.
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