Sourced from red sand on clay soils of the Skurfberg Mountains, the 2010 Cape of Good Hope Chenin Blanc bides its time on the nose, opening slowly with notes of pear skin and lanolin. The palate is well balanced and very composed with an almost Chardonnay-like character, when I would prefer to see more Chenin Blanc. Nevertheless, there is fine tension on the reserved finish that will open up with time. Drink 2012-2017. This Franschhoek based winery is named after Anthonij Rupert, the son of South African billionaire Anton Rupert, who tragically died in 2001. Their flagship wines, the Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc, represent top-class internationally styled varietals that are hand-picked and lavished in 18 and 24-months in new French oak.Importer: Terlato Wines International, NJ. 201-659-4712.

A crackling minerality runs through the core of pear, green plum and nectarine notes. Completed by a flash of heather on the finish, this shows fine persistence. Intriguing. Drink now through 2014. 500 cases made.??–JM??Region: South Africa / Western Cape / Olifants River / Citrusdal Mountain Select to Add