Tasting notes
Rall Cinsault Blanc 2022
‘Grapes from a 0.2ha Wellington vineyard and “the only example in the world” of a wine from this variety. The 2022 vintage of Cinsault Blanc is destined for export only. Not tasted.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za
Rall Grenache Blanc 2022
‘Grapes entirely from Piekenierskloof this vintage whereas 2021 included a Stellenbosch portion. The nose is extraordinarily shy at this stage – elusive notes of pear, peach, citrus and herbs while the palate is light-bodied with fresh acidity and pithy texture. Very tight and unshowy. Alc: 12%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 92/100
Rall Noa Chenin Blanc 2022
‘From a Paardeberg vineyard planted in 1969 on granitic soils. Lime, lemon, earth and a subtle waxy note on the nose while the palate shows dense fruit, well integrated acidity and a dry finish. Surprisingly forceful given an alcohol of just 12% but this equally possesses plenty of drive.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 95/100
Rall Ava Chenin Blanc 2022
‘From a vineyard planted on schist soils. Yellow fruit (peach, apple) to go with hay, earth and spice on the nose. The palate has lovely breadth and texture – really detailed with layers of flavour, the finish showing a slight bitterness so typical of the variety. Alc: 13.5%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 95/100
Rall Cinsault 2022
‘70% Darling and 20% Swartland grapes. 100% whole-bunch fermentation. Complex aromatics of black cherry, plum, potpourri, earth and spice. The palate has nice roundness and weight – good fruit concentration, bright acidity and supple tannins. Alcohol is 13% compared to 2021’s 12% and shows more vinosity as a result.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 93/100
Rall Ava Syrah 2022
‘From vineyards on schist. Matured in 3 000-litre foudres. Hugely complex aromatics of red and black berries, orange, rose, lavender, fynbos and white pepper – all quite heady. The palate has astonishing clarity and focus – really vivid with lovely freshness and supremely long and dry finish. Poised, intricate and tightly coiled.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 98/100
Rall Syrah 2022
‘Grapes from the vineyard that supplies Ava below but matured in 4 500-litre concrete squares rather than oak. 100% whole-bunch fermentation. Compelling aromatics of red and black berries, fynbos, earth, coriander and pepper. Light-bodied yet intensely flavoured with a great line of acidity and powdery tannins. Compact but also possessing plenty of verve and vitality – if 2021 was good, this is superb. Alc: 12.5%.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 96/100
Rall White 2022
‘72% Chenin Blanc, 24% Verdelho and 4% Viognier – includes a portion of Chenin from the vineyard from which Noa below is sourced. Expressive aromatics of citrus, peach, floral perfume, herbs and a subtle reductive note while the palate has a dense core of fruit, invigorating acidity and dry finish. Poised and rather thrilling drinking.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 97/100
Rall Red 2021
‘78% Syrah, 13% Grenache, 7% Carignan and 2% Cinsault. Matured for 12 months in older 225- and 300-litre barrels. Red and black berries, floral perfume, fynbos and a little undergrowth on the nose. Medium bodied with fresh acidity fine tannins. Balanced and lightly dry on the finish. Very appealing with a nice crunchy quality to it.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100
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