The 2016 Vin de Constance is matured in 50% French acacia oak, Hungarian oak and regular French oak, and 50% in French foudres. This has more delineation and precision on the nose compared to the previous vintage, offering acacia honey, quince, saffron and touches of elderflower in the background. The palate is very well balanced with fine precision, a killer line of acidity and disarming purity toward a finish that lingers in the mouth. Stunning. Drink 2024-2060. Rated 97. - Neal Martin, vinous.com November, 2019

Excelsior’s vineyards are characterized by limestone-rich calcareous clay soils, ideal for producing fine wine. All estate fruit, a portion of the Chardonnay also comes from broken shale, which gives the wine a stone fruit character. The vines range in age from 4-21 years and enjoy cool afternoon breezes that sweep through the Robertson Valley in the summer, providing a kind of natural air-conditioning in the vineyards on hot days. The grapes were hand harvested in the cool, early mornings, at ripeness levels of 23 to 24½° Brix. Fully 3⁄4 of the wine was fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve the fresh citrus flavors. The remaining 1⁄4 was fermented and aged in French oak, which lends a subtle toasty nuance. Both portions were aged on their lees for three months. Bright yellow-gold in color with fresh Chardonnay aromas suggestive of green apple and citrus blossom with just a hint of toast; nicely rounded on the tongue with a crisp citrusy freshness of flavor and subtle minerality both satisfying and refreshing; and, as always from Excelsior, exceptional value, too.

Chenin Blanc is South Africa’s most widely planted varietal and the Cape’s signature white wine, once referred to more simply as Steen. Indaba Chenin Blanc is produce of 100% sustainably-farmed Chenin Blanc fruit sourced from select vineyard sites in Swartland, Paarl, Stellenbosch, Durbanville, Robertson and McGregor, and characterized by soils (some of the oldest soils in the world) of Table Mountain sandstone, decomposed Dolomite granite, shale and red Karoo clay. The vines range in age from 6 to 36+ years old, more than half of which are low-yielding dry-farmed bush vines. Shimmering platinum/yellow with glints of green in color; fresh, tempting produce-section aromas suggesting melon, kiwi and myriad orchard fruits; tactile on the tongue, well-rounded, supple, slippery, almost gulpable and so completely delicious. Makes one feel good, too — Indaba gives back from its profits to the communities from which it sources. And, do take note of the value here.

Ruby red in color with lovely aromas suggestive of cassis and violet, fleshy ripe grape and earth; medium-bodied, crisp and compelling, invigorating even with mouthwatering Cabernet berry fruit and balancing fresh acidity, nice polished palate feel and soft chalky tannins; holds it shape on the tongue, at once both fresh and vibrant, toothsome and satisfying. And, by all means, note the price. This is simply superb value in Cabernet Sauvignon!