- 90
2021 Alheit Vineyards Hereafter Here Chenin Blanc
Hereafter Here (intentionally similar sounding to year after year, denoting the passage of time) is based on two young vine blocks in Stellenbosch. The main contributor is the Baby Duck vineyard, planted on granite soils on a gentle southern slope in the Polkadraai Hills ward, while the second vineyard is planted in the Upper Blaauwklippen Valley on deep red soil.
The grapes were hand sorted and whole bunch pressed. The resulting juice was very lightly settled with no additions and wild fermented in old barrels of various sizes. After fermentation, the wine was kept on lees for around twelve months, then rested in tank on fine lees without fining for a further six months prior to bottling.
Other Reviews....
The 2021 Hereafter Here is a level up from the previous vintage. There's a bit more pizzazz on the nose, more vigour with enticing honeysuckle and orange pith scents. The palate is well balanced with fine concentration, cohesive, not as complex as some of Alheit's other cuvées, yet fresh and saline on the finish. Very fine. Drink 2023-2033.
90 points
Neal Martin - Vinous
First produced in 2020, this Chenin Blanc hails from dry farmed, bush vine vineyards that are less than 20 years' old, blending components from Stellenbosch and the Swartland. Savoury and refreshing, with mouth-watering acidity, rock salt and lemongrass flavours and the zip that's typical of the 2021 whites. Drink 2022-2029.
94 points
Tim Atkin MW - South Africa Special Report