Dear *|FNAME|*,

Geographica is the latest creative endeavour from master winemaker Chris Williams. As the name suggests, it’s the ultimate outlet for Chris to produce wines inspired by place. Formerly Cellar Master of Meerlust, his brilliant Bonsai Chenin Blanc 2020 has ‘real presence’, says Christian Eedes, while the Thoreau Cabernet Franc 2020 is a nod to the Loire and ‘pretty much pitch perfect’.

Chris speaks of the atmospheric experience of just being in the 1957 Chenin vineyard – perched on the slopes of the Helderberg in the teeth of the Cape South Easter. The small bush vines offer immense concentration and cool, coastal fruit, with a rare balance of freshness and fynbos overtones. The sibling red is incredibly poised with fine, detailed tannins – celebrating the delicate beauty of Cabernet Franc.

As the head winemaker at Meerlust until 2019, Chris Williams produced one of SA’s most iconic wines. He also established The Foundry in 2001, which focused on single-varietal bottlings. With more headspace and a second wind igniting his passion, he’s revelling in the creative pursuit of winemaking again with these limited releases.

Reply to this email or visit our website to place your order online.

Vinous regards,

Tasting notes

Geographica Bonsai Chenin Blanc 2020

‘Grapes from a 1957 vineyard planted on the Helderberg – the wine named for the tiny bunches that these bushvines yield. Fermented and matured for 10 months in older barrels and terracotta. Pear, peach, citrus, fynbos, straw and talcum powder on the nose while the palate has great fruit delineation and zippy acidity. Substantial yet balanced and not short of energy. Real presence thanks in part to a residual sugar of 4.5g/l.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100

Geographica Thoreau Cabernet Franc 2020

‘Named in honour of 19th century American naturalist and author Henry David Thoreau. Grapes from the western slopes of Klapmuts. 20% whole-bunch fermentation. Fermented and matured for 16 months, 80% in French oak and 20% in terracotta. The nose shows cranberry, cherry, cassis and rose plus a subtle and attractive grassy quality. The palate has good weight and texture – succulent fruit, bright acidity and fine tannins, the finish long and dry. At 13.75% aclohol, it’s pretty much pitch perfect – neither under- or overdone.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100

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