James Suckling 95 points.
A pleasantly fresh nose of red and black fruit, red licorice and tobacco leaf. Full-bodied
with silky, rounded tannins. Succulent and expressive on the palate, with lovely
freshness and drive. Transparent and clear through the very long, persistent finish.
Delicious. Drink or hold.JS.
Jane Anson 94 points.
The 2017 Anwilka was aged for 19 months in 50% new oak (400-liter barrels) and the rest in second-fill. It has a pure, seductive bouquet of boysenberry and cassis fruit, the vanilla-y oak seamlessly integrated and not imposing itself like older vintages of Anwilka. The palate is medium-bodied with grippy tannins, and slightly granular in texture, presenting layered black fruit laced with tobacco, allspice and touches of cassis. Very seductive on the finish. This is an almost Napa-like Anwilka that requires 3–4 years in barrel.
Drink from 2024 - 2040
Neal Martin, Vinous (April 2021)
Located in a carefully selected site in Helderberg, Stellenbosch, Anwilka is a result of the joint venture of three brilliant winemakers: Hubert de Boüard of Château Angélus, Bruno Prats formerly of Cos d’Estournel and Lowell Jooste previous owner of Klein Constantia. Since the 1990s, the estate has been extensively replanted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Petit Verdot with the aim to produce an iconic wine. Anwilka has been well received amongst various critic including Robert Parker who describes it as ‘the finest red wine I have ever had from South Africa’
Aged for 14 months in big French oak barrel (50% new). Aromas of strawberry, raspberry and cherry with notes of toasted spices, tobacco and hints of cassis. Fresh and vibrant on the palate, this is a medium-bodied and elegant wine with supple tannins and a very seductive finish.
