Glenelly Lady May is the pinnacle of Stellenbosch Bordeaux-style blends. Their best-rated release yet, the 2021 is a wine of grace, finesse and persistent power, combining ‘succulence with structure at the highest level’ (Christian Eedes).
‘The wine is monumental in scale yet defined by clarity rather than weight,’ says Eedes. The 2021 is 78% Cabernet Sauvignon, complemented by Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot. It offers cassis, plums, pressed violets and pencil shavings supported by firm, cascading tannins – promising phenomenal ageing.
Glenelly was acquired in 2003 by Madame May de Lencquesaing of Bordeaux’s Château Pichon Lalande. Her vision was to transform the property into one of the finest in Stellenbosch, and Glenelly has certainly repaid this faith.
If you’re in Cape Town, join us tonight at Tannin wine bar in Bree Street for a Glenelly Lady May Vertical with cellarmaster Dirk van Zyl. He’ll take us through a series of vintages, alongside top Bordeaux, to showcase the evolution of this modern icon. Email lauren@briceandburnett.co.za to buy a ticket and secure your spot.
Tasting Notes:
‘The nose shows plum, cassis, violets, incense, pencil shavings and a faint trace of crushed leaf, though green character is all but absent. The wine is monumental in scale yet defined by clarity rather than weight. Fruit concentration is matched by vivid acidity, while the tannins are firm and architectural, pointing clearly to a long future ahead. It combines succulence with structure at the highest level and sets a new benchmark for Cape Bordeaux blends.’ – Christian Eedes, Winemag.co.za, 98/100
‘I’d been waiting to taste the 2021 Lady May for over a year, and it didn’t disappoint. Led by Cabernet Sauvignon with a supporting cast of 9% Merlot, 7% Cabernet Franc and 6% Petit Verdot, it’s one of the best releases yet of this increasingly iconic red. Fresh, perfumed and intense, with cigar box, graphite and rocket aromas, it has a core of cassis and black olive, deftly integrated 40% new oak, layered tannins and the structure to age gracefully in bottle.’ – Tim Atkin MW, SA Special Report 2025, 97/100
