Wine Cellar Insiders' January 2025 Bottle size: 750ml

Roodekrantz Somerkind Chenin Blanc 2023 – R 195
‘The nose is layered and complex, with intense tropical aromas of papaya, melon and peach. On the palate, the wine is finely tuned and delicate, showcasing a linear structure with great freshness. A slight salinity on the finish enhances the tropical fruit notes, adding an intriguing dimension to the overall profile. This Chenin Blanc is a refined and sophisticated choice for those seeking a nuanced, balanced and elegant wine experience.’ – Winemaker

Goudichaud Graves de Vayres Blanc 2020 – R 225
‘With some wood aging, this is a spicy, fruity young wine. Still tightly textured, it will be better after a few months bring out the rich yellow-fruit and kiwi flavors. Drink from 2022.’ – Roger Voss, Wine Enthusiast, 89/100
Moya Meaker W.O. Elgin Riesling 2023 – R 325
‘Grapes from a vineyard planted in 2006 on shale. Fermented and matured for 11 months in concrete. Flinty reduction before lime, green apple, peach and some petrol on the nose. The palate is imposing with dense fruit, punchy acidity and a super-dry finish. Sweet ‘n sour with a creamy texture. Alc: 12.16%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 92/100

Testalonga Baby Bandito Stay Brave 2024 – R 195
‘Grapes from a vineyard planted in 1981 on granite. Two weeks of skin contact. Pretty aromatics of soft citrus, orange, potpourri and a hint of white pepper. Lovely fruit expression, bright acidity and a gently savoury finish. Balanced and relatively understated – not too tannic at all. Alc: 11.5%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 91/100

Niepoort Drink Me Tinto 2021 – R 170
This vintage has not been rated; see 2019 vintage tasting notes:
'Mid purple crimson with vibrant purple rim. But the colour is not as vibrant as the fruit, which soars from the glass, in sweet black fruit aromas especially blackcurrant and cassis but with the wildness of elderberry. Dark-red fruits too, mulberry and raspberry. There’s a dark, rocky, almost dusty, overlay that I associate with the Douro though the wine is labelled as a wine of Portugal. Deep and rich-fruited on the palate, generous and yet so lively and fresh, with what might be a little bit of extra sweet spice from the oak. Dry and fine tannins balance all the zesty fruit. Still pretty firm. Drink Me is so apt for this wine but at the moment I’d broach it with food. A great all-rounder. It may not be a wine for long ageing but I think this will be even better with another 6 months in bottle.' –Julia Harding MW, JancisRobinson.com, 16+/20

Chapoutier Bila-Haut Rouge 2022 – R 195
‘The 2022 Côtes du Roussillon Villages Bila Haut has some classic Roussillon notes of darker berries, peppery herbs, spice, and loamy earth. With medium-bodied richness and a supple, elegant, layered mouthfeel, it will compete with wines two to three times its price.’ – Jeb Dunnuck, 91/100