2014 Alheit - Cartology Bush Vines

82 barrels produced. 50% from Paardeberg – unusually – because it responded better to the wet winter. More creamy and buttery than the 2013 but not over the top. Broad and orangey on the palate, lots of spice and breadth and a little less tension but no lack of freshness. And a long, spicy, orange-inflected finish. Developing more quickly and has a little bit of botrytis, especially in the Stellenbosch fruit. Rare to have more than 4 to 5% but he is not against it and wants to reflect the place and the vintage. (JH)

The 2014 Cartology Bush Vines is Chris Alheit's fourth release since it blazed onto the South African scene. It comes from the same vineyards as previous vintages. Chris said this is completely unfined and unfiltered with a very healthy pH. The nose has a sense of confidence about it, racing out of the blocks with orange zest, honeysuckle, jasmine and a touch of loganberry. The palate is lightly honeyed on the entry, beautifully balanced with a fine line of acidity, gently building in the mouth towards a complex, absorbing finish of lychee, white pepper and fennel. What a fantastic wine, but then again, that's were Chris Alheit has set the bar.

Pale greenish gold. Very scented and well integrated. Real punch and excitement. Such green and honey character with some bitter herbs and yet there is such delicacy too. Nervy. (JR)