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Tasting notes
The Anwilka 2021 Stellenbosch Anwilka is an unusual blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon and 40% Syrah. Merlot was considered but was found to be too leafy and therefore excluded. This wine offers lots of spice and a savory quality with rich dark fruit. It ages in medium-toast barrel, both 400 liter and barrique. One-third of the Syrah is whole-bunch fruit, and they work with submerged cap in order to flesh out the sweet tannins and creaminess of the wine. This vineyard site in Stellenbosch is seven kilometers from the ocean and greatly influenced by marine winds.
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Neal Martin
Neal Martin
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Winemaker Matthew Day poured the 2021 Anwilka once again after I tasted it last year; this is the first vintage under his charge. It is consistent with my previous note, though perhaps it has just closed up a little on the finish, suggesting that it is setting itself up for the long term.
The 2021 Anwilka is the first vintage that Matt Day is responsible for from start to finish, 30-40% whole bunch ferment on the Syrah whilst the Cabernet was picked earlier than previously. This is matured in 225-litre barrels then 400-litre with less new oak (40% instead of the 60% in 2020). It has a pure and sensual bouquet with blackberry, cassis and dried violet petals aromas. The palate is medium-bodied with fine tannins, a heightened graphite element that was not evident apropos prior vintages with a more classically-styled, Medoc-like finish. An inflexion point for Anwilka? I think so.
About the producer
Based in Constantia, a short drive from the suburbs of Cape Town, Klein Constantia produces some of South Africa’s finest wines, including its iconic sweet wine, Vin de Constance.
Product details
Syrah / Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Malbec/ Auxerrois / Cot
Red
Dry