Alheit Vineyards Hemelrand Vine Garden 2024
Hemelrand Vine Garden is produced from a single vineyard planted in 2010 on the cold, wind-swept Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge. It is a true field blend of Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, Roussanne, Verdelho, and a touch of Muscat. Rather than blending finished wines, the varieties are picked and pressed together, allowing the vineyard's specific high-altitude "voice" to lead the way. In keeping with Chris Alheit's low-intervention philosophy, the 2024 was fermented with native yeasts in old, neutral French oak barrels. The wine matured on its lees for around a year, gaining a subtle, creamy texture without any "toasty" wood interference. The result is a wine that feels incredibly pure and vertical, reflecting the stony soils and the cooling Atlantic breezes that define the Ridge. The 2024 vintage is remarkably vibrant. The nose is a complex mix of white peach, apricot, and a hint of orange blossom. On the palate, it has a beautiful, waxy weight that is immediately cut through by a laser-like acidity. It is both sun-ripened and stone-cold - a perfect balance of South African fruit and "Old World" structure. This is a wine that rewards the patient drinker. It is a "Bonafide" expression of a single place, offering a level of sophistication usually reserved for top-tier Burgundy. It’s a standout choice for anyone looking to explore the cooler side of the Cape’s white wine revolution.
