Few South African wines command the same reverence as Cartology. This benchmark white is a masterclass in Cape heritage and terroir – and we think the 2024 might just be their finest yet.
Chris and Suzaan started Alheit Vineyards in 2010, and it was Cartology that put them on the world map. A blend of old-vine Chenin Blanc and Semillon, the 2024 is sourced from rare, dry-farmed bush-vine sites across the Western Cape, capturing the best of every vineyard they work with – from the Skurfberg and Piekenierskloof to Stellenbosch.
It’s a wine of layered complexity, showing delineated fruit atop notes of quince, spice, tea, nougat, wax and nectarine, followed by a pithy, mineral end. Chris agrees that this is his best release to date, and it’s set to age for over a decade.
Also impressive is their ‘Baby Cartology’, the 95-point Hereafter Here 2024, which sees a refocus and significant step up in quality! It offers phenomenal value given its pedigree. ‘A wine that marries satisfying weight with poise – the most convincing vintage to date’, enthuses Christian Eedes.
If you’re interested in any of their single vineyards, please email lauren@winecellar.co.za to request an allocation. As always, we’re happy to assist with food pairings and cellar plans.
Tasting Notes:
Alheit Vineyards Cartology 2024
‘W.O. Western Cape. 92% Chenin Blanc, 8% Semillon. Delicate aromatics of hay, pear, white peach, lime, dried herbs and a touch of gravel-road dust. The palate starts off seemingly light but reveals more depth and nuance with time in the glass. Taut and linear, the wine is defined by racy acidity and a pithy, dry finish. Refined and quietly complex, with impressive detail and length.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 94/100
Alheit Vineyards Hereafter Here 2024
‘Mostly a young vineyard wine, Chenin Blanc from Swartland, Piekenierskloof, Bottelary, Polkadraai Hills plus some from older parcels in Paardeberg and Tygerberg. A forthcoming nose of pear, peach and citrus, along with less conspicuous notes of fynbos, honeysuckle and a hint of flinty reduction. The palate shows impressive fruit concentration, supported by soft yet sufficient acidity, tapering to a gently savoury finish. A wine that marries satisfying weight with poise – the most convincing vintage to date.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 95/100
