Medium

Cork

South Africa

Set up in 2015 by influential viticulturist Etienne Terblanche and winemaker Stephanie Wiid (formerly of Fairview), Thistle & Weed delivered the only Exceptional wine from the tasting not based on Cabernet. This is a complex and idiosyncratic blend from Wellington and Stellenbosch, comprising 31% Tempranillo, 27% Alicante Bouschet, 17% Sousão, 12% Pontac, 6% Tinta Francisca, 6% Touriga Nacional and, just for good measure, 1% Touriga Franca. Naturally fermented in open-top vessels, the wine is aged for eight months in second- and third-fill barrels. Jason Millar: Fruity without sweetness, with a slightly saturated, purple-tinged, almost Douro vibe. Loads of fruit, but it feels contained and sculpted rather than explosive. Impressive. Roger Jones: Ripe, intense and funky, hints of mocha and chocolate and fruit preserve, some spice. Still youthfully fresh, but offers a crianza style, to age. Victoria Mason MW: An eclectic, characterful blend. The nose needs coaxing currently. Inky black berry-cherry palate, wild herbs and violets. Structured and bold but fresh, with a graphite minerality.

Alicante Bouschet / Garnacha Tintorera

Souzao

Tempranillo

Thistle & Weed, Nastergal, Western Cape, South Africa, 2022

Set up in 2015 by influential viticulturist Etienne Terblanche and winemaker Stephanie Wiid (formerly of Fairview), Thistle & We

Thistle & Weed, Nastergal, Western Cape, South Africa, 2022

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