Dear *|FNAME|*,

André van Rensburg’s distinguished career culminated in 25 years at Vergelegen, and his success can be measured by a long list of local and international awards. Part madman, part genius, his outspoken nature always has a pointed wit to it. This is a winemaker with an obsessive determination to produce the best terroir-expressive wines humanly possible.

Now retired from Vergelegen, André’s first solo releases speak of his brilliance. They exude excellence and precision, showing off decades of craftmanship. Richard Kelley MW observes, with a touch of humour: ‘Over the last three decades, I’ve come to understand that André is the greatest winemaker in the world. It’s something he reminds me of every time we meet.’

From Stellenbosch fruit, the André van Rensburg Artisan Wines Sauvignon Blanc/Sémillon 2021 is a blend of 86% Sauvignon Blanc and 14% Sémillon, raised in 500-litre French oak and stainless steel. André was the pioneer of this style in the ‘90s, and this wine shows incredible balance and focus. At R280, it has the refinement, pedigree and age-ability of other top Bordeaux-style whites in SA – but at half the price.

Whilst at the helm of Vergelegen, he produced some of the finest Cabernet Sauvignon based blends South Africa has ever made. The André van Rensburg Artisan Wines Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2020 is a seamless blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and the rest Merlot, with splashes of Cabernet Franc and Malbec. This is pure class, with exemplary tannin management and layered complexity. It’s destined for a decade or more of evolution.

These are impeccable first releases from a master winemaker, now free to do exactly as he pleases.

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

Vinous regards,

Tasting notes

André van Rensburg Artisan Wines Sauvignon Blanc/Sémillon 2021

‘Fresh citrus notes, ripe tangerine, curry leaf, blackcurrant, opening nicely with salty sea breeze and fynbos edges. Juicy on the palate – just lovely and delicious already. The bright acidity amplifies the wine, which is ever evolving in the glass with white peach purity, some spice, and a long, lingering saline tail. Approachable now but ultimately a wine that would be better over a decade or more. Such balance, precision, and fruit depth.’ – James Pietersen, February 2023

André van Rensburg Artisan Wines Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot 2020

‘Attractive aromas abound with lots of oak spice and wonderful youthful fruit, followed by savoury spice and again a distinct fynbos/bouquet garni interest. The fruit cascades beautifully from red to blackberry, with licks of cocoa powder and layers of earth and ripe tobacco. The entry is fresh, bright, and lively – a line of crushed minerality cutting the balanced, powerful and detailed tannins. A seamless wine of great fruit depth, integrated oak, and incredible focus.’ – James Pietersen, February 2023

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