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Winemaker Simon Thompson
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Proprietor Adrian Vanderspuy
Winery based in Banhoek, Stellenbosch, all wines are certified Wines of Origin Stellenbosch, instead of Banhoek as a ward!
Good range with clean fruit, fresh and vibrant, though the alcohol verges on the higher side, possibly around around 14% and above, which will make them challenging to paired with food.
The Cabernet Franc shows the most potential, very much like their neighbour Rainbow's End, Zorgvliet and Le Pommier, it seems that Cabernet Franc is making a home for itself in the tiny ward of Banhoek.
The Cabernet Sauvignon was equally fine, as well as the Chenin Blanc.
The least favorite wines was the, rich and extracted Syrah, which shows none of the elegance and savouriness one would expect, in fact it was more Shiraz in profile.
The Chardonnay possibbly due to higher pH was showing sign of advanced developement for a 2011 both in color, aromatics and texture.
It can only get better from there as the vineyards mature, however as a relatively unknown winery, their pricing are quite ambitious, compare to similar quality on the market, both Chenin and Chardonnay are price at R118 per bottle and the reds are all priced at R 182, will make them quite challenging to sell on a wine lists with hotels/restaurant mark up!
However the scenic location of the winery is worth a detour not only for a tasting and to stock up for home consumptions or to impress friends and business associates with something from a "boutique winery".
Hereunder my scores:
Oldenburg Vineyards Stellenbosch Cabernet Franc 2009 90+ Points
Oldenburg Vineyards Stellenbosch Chenin Blanc 2011 89 Points
Oldenburg Vineyards Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 88+ Points
Oldenburg Vineyards Stellenbosch Chardonnay 2011 86 Points
Oldenburg Vineyards Stellenbosch Syrah 2009 83 Points
