For the first time this year, we have been able to ship these two fantastic wines in sufficient quantity to offer widely. Whilst we don’t expect stocks to hang around, it is a least a chance to secure two white wines from one of the Cape’s most widely admired producers.
Cartology is the wine that started it all. A 90% Chenin Blanc, 10% Semillon blend, produced exclusively from heritage vineyard across the Western Cape, it has remained the mainstay and the flagship wine – one that is often referred to as a defining bottle in the quality rebirth of the industry. With time, Chris’ continued pursuit of near-lost, historical parcels gave rise to the single vineyard collection, of which quantities are tiny. Hereafter Here was born in 2020 as a vehicle to celebrate younger vines, with Chris and partner-growers able to select site and material entirely with the finished product in mind. Hereafter Here has also proven a great way to nurture younger parcels that are outstanding but still too young for Cartology, bridging the gap between the now-discontinued Flotsam & Jetsam label, and Cartology et al. The two wines represent, respectively, one foot in the past and one in the future, though both deliver exceptional quality.
Read MoreThe wines see a total of 18 months aging before release; the first twelve months on the fine lees in neutral oak vessels of varying sizes before blending and a further six months in tank.
The 2021 Cartology is a worthy follow-up to the 2020. It unfurls gradually on the nose with honeysuckle and light yellow plum and mirabelle scents, a mineral undertow that stealthily gains prominence. The palate is very well balanced with just a killer line of acidity; Nashi pear and yellow plum commingle towards a resinous finish. After 10 minutes, it really beginning to fire on all cylinders - another magnificent Cartology. Superb. – 95pts, Neal Martin, Vinous.
The 2021 Hereafter Here is a level up from the previous vintage. There's a bit more pizzazz on the nose, more vigour with enticing honeysuckle and orange pith scents. The palate is well balanced with fine concentration, cohesive, not as complex as some of Alheit's other cuvées, yet fresh and saline on the finish. Very fine. – 90pts, Neal Martin, Vinous.