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Restless River: producer profile and six wines to try

South Africa's Hemel-en-Aarde Valley has forged its reputation with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. On a recent visit, Chris Wilson spent time with Restless River, a producer which shines not only with those Burgundian varietals, but has also gone against the grain and added a dash of Bordeaux.

South Africa’s Hemel-en-Aarde Valley near the coastal town of Hermanus in the Western Cape has become synonymous for high-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In this rugged valley, just a few miles from the ocean, are some of the country’s most exciting and well-known producers.

Located in the Upper Hemel-en-Aarde Valley appellation is Restless River, named after the Onrus River which splits the valley in two. Here, Craig and Anne Wessels farm Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, but also Cabernet Sauvignon, a rare grape in these parts and one which stands them out from the other producers in the region.


Scroll down to see tasting notes and scores for six Restless River wines to try



Restless River: six wines to seek out


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