Description
The 2023 release of Hemelrand marks one of the most fascinating chapters in this vineyard’s history. Chris and Suzaan Alheit encountered a touch of botrytis in the Chenin Blanc just before harvest and made the bold decision to leave it in the blend. Rather than making a sweet wine, they fermented it to bone-dry, resulting in a "Vine Garden" with a level of exotic complexity we haven't seen from this site before.
The technical specs remain consistent with the Alheit ethos—natural fermentation in seasoned barrels and concrete—but the character of the 2023 is entirely its own. The "noble rot" hasn't added sugar, but it has contributed a distinct honeyed weight and a savory, waxy texture that balances the naturally high acidity of the Hemel-en-Aarde Ridge.
This is a deep, evocative white. It smells of peach, apricot, and dried flowers, while the palate offers a slightly more viscous, oily feel than previous years. A twist of bitter lemon on the finish keeps it perfectly upright and fresh. It is a brilliant, singular wine from two of South Africa’s most respected producers, and given the tiny yields of 2023, it is an exceptionally rare find.
94 points
"Dense fruit and driving acidity before a deeply savoury finish. A compelling rendition of this wine"
- Christian Eedes (Wine Magazine))
| Price Bracket | $51 to $100 |
| Type | White |
| Body | Medium Bodied |
| Variety | Chenin Blanc |
| Country | South Africa |
| Reviewed By |
Wine Magazine |
| Critic Score |
94 |
| Size | 750ml |
| Vintage | 2023 |
| Closure | Cork |
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Common Questions
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Most wine retailers list at a single-bottle price and then discount 10–15% when you buy six or twelve. We've taken the opposite approach. Since the overwhelming majority of our orders are already 6 bottles or more, our list price is set for the case buyer from the start. There's no inflated single-bottle price to discount down from.
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