2022 Natte Valleij, Swallow the Blend, Coastal Region
Western Cape,South Africa,
£14.99
Bottle size: 75cl,
In stock
Shop Stock: Out of stock.
*Standard UK delivery 2-3 working days
Warehouse Stock: 240 available.
*Extended UK delivery 3-5 working days
*International Delivery available, location dependent.
Named after the pearl-breasted swallows that return each year to nest in the cellar at Natte Valleij Wines. This is our R&D wine in the ever quest to discover new vineyards and techniques in the cellar. Aged for 18 months in barrel and made to be enjoyed! Lovely charcuterie savouriness balanced off by lashings of spice and a macerated fruit finish. A wine for friends and family and perhaps even the in-laws.
Description
Named after the pearl-breasted swallows that nest in the Natte Valleij cellar each year, this unique blend is a result of the winery’s ongoing research and experimentation with new vineyards and techniques. Made from 76% Syrah, 17% Cinsault, and 7% Chenin Blanc, the wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels. The result is a beautifully balanced wine with savory charcuterie notes, plenty of spice, and a rich, macerated fruit finish. With its approachable nature and full flavor, this is a wine designed for sharing with friends and family. Vegan-friendly and natural, it offers great depth and character, perfect for pairing with a variety of dishes.
Reviews
Greg Sherwood 94
A truly delicious blend of 76% Syrah, 17% Cinsault, and 7% Chenin Blanc, this wine is famously inspired by a pair of swallows that return to the Natte Valleij cellar to next year after year in the majestic beauty of this Stellenbosch winery. The aromatics are beautifully perfumed, intense and precise with piercing notes of Parma violets, cherry blossom and alluring hints of lavender intertwined with sweet scented notes of red cherry, candied strawberry and Turkish delight. A medium weight in the mouth, this supple, delicately fleshy red shows impressive balance and harmonious depth with a striking intensity of raspberry boiled sweets, tart red cherry, and tart plum. This is more Vin de Soif than broody, serious Syrah and it s all the better for it. Drink now and over the next 3 to 5+ years. [Greg Sherwood MW, 07/11/2023]
Producer Profile
Natte Valleij, a historic family farm in Stellenbosch run by winemaker Alex Milner, has received critical acclaim for his site specific Cinsault from various pockets of extraordinary old vine parcels across the Cape. Tamlyn Currin writes: “It was the first time I’d tasted Cinsault. It was the first time I actually understood the variety. It was a lightning strike.” Together with his stellar Axle Chenin Blanc from Darling. Tamlyn writes: “Alex Milner pushes the edges of possibility and beauty. He always takes my breath away. Surely this cannot be under £30?!” The stage has been set, heroing the adopted heritage grapes of South Africa, finally allowing them freedom of expression. As well as our very own, native Pinotage – Alex and his Natte Valleij wines represent the spirit of the Cape and we’d strongly advise you visit him and his wines during Cape Wine.
