Keet First Verse 2020 Bottle size: 750ml

‘Chris Keet describes the 2020 growing season as a "vintage handed to you on a silver platter". The resulting First Verse, sourced from eight sites in the Helderberg, Polkadraai Hills, Simonsberg and Stellenbosch Mountain sub-regions of Stellenbosch is another gem of a blend, based on Cabernet Franc, with 71% Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Scented, seamless and refined, it has bay leaf and graphite aromas, fine-boned tannins, scented 15% new oak and cassis, plum and red berry flavours. 2025-32’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2023, 96/100

‘A blend of 29% Cabernet Franc, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, 19% Merlot, 16% Petit Verdot and 10% Malbec sourced from across Stellenbosch district, it was matured for 18 months in barrel, 15% new. Complex aromatics of red and black berries, violets, some leafiness, oystershell, turned earth and pencil shavings precede a palate that’s medium bodied with fresh acidity and silky tannins. This is a wine that has both fruit purity and structure – it is hardly underdone given an alcohol of 14.5% but it has lovely composure and detail. It manages to be immediately appealing but simultaneously possessing the necessary to mature with benefit.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100

‘Consistently superior Cape Bordeaux, slightly more Cab Franc than Cab in near-equal Merlot & Petit Verdot, dab Malbec, from prime Stellenbosch sites, 18 months oak, 15% new. At 14.5% alc, touch more heft but retains signature freshness, compelling fruit intensity & almost weightless powdery tannins’ – Platter’s Guide, 5*(95/100)