Lock, stock and wine barrel: Best wines of 2018

Investing in wine is easy, especially with options like Wine Cellar offering expert backing when purchasing from the importer.

But, Wine Cellar, which is run from an old candle factory below ground, has also released their best of 2018 list. It’s worth looking at the best from last year while it’s still in stock.

South African wine judge James Pietersen shares some top picks.

Neil Ellis, Jonkershoek Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 (R385)

Warren Ellis and his siblings, who have taken over the family business, are bringing this stalwart producer into this new era in South African wine. A collector’s dream.

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Savage, Red 2015 (R290)

Duncan Savage’s wines are some of SA’s most sought-after and with some of his wines reaching cult status his following grows every year.

At the heart of his success, the current-release 2015 Red underscores the refinement of Duncan’s vision. From another great vintage, it is the most serious Savage Red to date.

Cape Point Vineyards, Isliedh 2017 (R275)

Produced from vineyards established by Rosa Kruger, the Isliedh is sourced from south-facing vineyards high on Cape Point overlooking Noordhoek.

From the 2017 vintage, an exceptional year for white wine, the Isliedh is a South African classic that showcases a remarkable vineyard. The 2017 is even better than previous releases and, at this level, offers incredible value.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bkj3bGul3sv/

Opstal, Chenin Blanc 2017 (R100)

Attie Louw of Opstal knows a thing or two about producing top-end Chenin Blanc and in fact Breedekloof Valley produces up to 70% of SA’s Chenin.

This is the best value white of the year. It’s nuanced and when it opens up it expresses more finery and detail.

For more information visit winecellar.co.za

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