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The maiden releases from Damascene, a joint venture between David Curl (ex Château Gaby) and Jean Smit, simply blew us away last year – reminiscent of the impact the first Mullineux, Alheit and Porseleinberg releases had! Jean’s mastery, aesthetic and detail-focused approach has found the perfect partner in David’s passion and vision and a visit to their new, state-of-the-art cellar in Elgin underscores their ambition. These new releases raise the bar, confirming that these terroir-specific wines are set to become new local benchmarks and that Damascene is the most exciting newcomer to the South African wine scene in the past decade. Here is an opportunity to get in there while Damascene is still relatively unknown.
Damascene’s second release, with two new additions, follows on from their impressive debut last year. A 2018 Stellenbosch Cabernet Sauvignon, from a combination of Helderberg, Bottelary and Polkadraai fruit, has all the hallmarks of a fine Bordeaux. Modern and classic at the same time, it is powerful, rich-fruited and broad-shouldered, yet elegant, dry and fresh. The other new addition is the 2019 Cederberg Syrah. There is lots of dense fruit here, but it is so deftly handled that it showcases the layered complexity of its long, slow ripening at 980m above sea level. While brooding at first, the blackberry fruit is joined by savoury notes and mountain fynbos, whilst the weighty palate is impressively fresh and dry.
The 2019 Franschhoek Sémillon, from vines planted in 1942 and 1962, is an exceptional example of an old-vine Sémillon that will mature easily for 20 years and beyond. It offers remarkable complexity and length. Previously at Boekenhoutskloof, Jean has made his fair share of Sémillon and regards this as his best effort to date.
The 2019 Stellenbosch Cabernet Franc includes about 20% Polkadraai fruit and, offering poise, freshness and balance, it is such a carefully realised expression. The perfumed, red fruit has savoury herbs and light spice in support of its medium-bodied nod to the Loire.
Last year’s standout release was the Stellenbosch Syrah and the 2019, like the previous vintage, is a combination of Polkadraai and Bottelary fruit and is just so darn delicious! Amazing aromatics lead on to a juicy, dark-fruited wine with notes of savoury meat spice. A fine, dry and impressive tannin structure supports its lovely fruit purity and, like all these releases, it possesses a sense of precision.
Please note, these are all limited in their availability and are soon to be some of the most sought-after South African wines.
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