Donovan Rall makes some of SA’s most sought-after wines, and his latest release isa triumph of both individuality and terroir expression. The 98-point 2023 Rall Red ‘walks the line between precision and power’, notes Christian Eedes. Capturing the heart of the Swartland, yet reminiscent of an exceptional Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this limited release is built for the long haul.
The Rall White 2024 will also reward the patient collector. Pure, poised and focused, ‘no other wine in the portfolio has achieved the level of consistency year on year over the last decade’, says Donovan. Expect lemon curd, orange blossoms, and beeswax with a textured palate that carries for a solid minute. The majority of the Chenin is now sourced from the NOA vineyard, planted in 1969.
The 95-point Rall Syrah 2024 is unbeatable value. The fruit for this wine comes exclusively from one of Donovan’s favourite Schist vineyards, which he also uses in the AVA. 100% whole bunch and aged in concrete, it’s ‘a well priced, ageworthy expression of Syrah in its rawest form’, explains Donovan.
The 95-point Grenache 2024 is a brilliant new wine from the Paardeberg, made in tiny quantities. It’s incredibly pure and fine, with notes of hibiscus, dark cherry and plum skin.
Everyone’s favourite Cinsault is more serious than ever in 2024 and we are loving it! From a vineyard in Darling planted in 1982, coupled with Paardeberg fruit, this 94-pointer is layered and detailed. A wine with Burgundian bones and a Barolo seriousness.
The 95-point Grenache Blanc 2024 is ‘supremely elegant and focused’. From high-altitude bush vines planted in 1989 on the Piekenierskloof, it’s vibrant and brimming with energy. Savoury, textured and ageworthy, only 500 bottles were produced, and there’s very little to go around.
The 97-point AVA Syrah is ‘beautifully judged … with plenty of finesse’, says Christian. From a schist vineyard on the border between Porseleinberg and Kasteelsig – the most extreme and low-yielding site that Donovan works with – this is a very special wine.
The 96 -point AVA Chenin is from an extremely low-yielding schist vineyard in Riebeeksrivier. ‘An elegant, impeccably controlled wine’ with ‘a remarkably long finish’, says Christian. Wait three years before opening – Donovan believes this is the most ageworthy of his whites.
Finally, the 95-point NOA Chenin is powerful and haunting. Offering delineated fruit and bright acidity, the moreish texture will keep building with years in the bottle. As always, the AVA Syrah, AVA Chenin and NOA Chenin are available in a tied pack only. However, for the first time, we’re giving you the chance to secure an allocation directly online.
Please note that these wines will be available for collection or delivery from 8 July 2025.
