Spier Frans K. Smit Heritage Reserve White 2023 CWG (fles)

Spier Frans K. Smit Heritage Reserve White 2023

This Sauvignon Blanc is sourced from dry land vineyards in Durbanville, situated on southwest-facing slopes. The Sémillon component comes from Durbanville as well, but from vines facing east. Each varietal is fermented separately in barrel. The majority of the wine undergoes fermentation and maturation in 320-litre Port-style barrels. After blending in June 2023, the wine matures until March 2024, spending a total of 12 months in barrel.

Tasting Notes:  A Sauvignon Blanc-led white blend, with gooseberry and black currant nose, hints of fig leaf, followed by spice from barrel ageing with hints of lemon from the Sémillon and a creamy, long finish. Ready for drinking now until 2034.

Winemaker: Frans Smit

WineWizzard 94/100
Green-tinged pale mid-gold. Lime blossom, marzipan and pear drop aromas. Plush and quite floral moving forward onto the palate with lemony notes melded with the faintest of fern leaf hints. Almost opulent but held in check with just the right amount of zestiness on the finish.

WineMag 92/100
58% Sauvignon Blanc, 42% Sémillon – grapes from Durbanville. Alc: 13.15%. The nose shows citrus, peach, floral perfume, a not insignificant note of dried herbs, vanilla and spice. The palate is forceful with dense fruit and a creamy texture, a good line of acidity providing a counterpoint, the finish long and pithy.