Stockist/Retailer: wineandsomething.com

(2022) From the dome-shaped Rondekop hill in the small, cool, elevated Ward of Banghoek, only 4,200 bottles of this wine were produced. It spent 18 months in 225l and 300l French oak barrels (40% new). Another dark and dense crimson wine, there is blackcurrant and firm cherry fruit, a little suggestion of graphite on the nose, the oak subtle and adding a touch of cedar. On the palate a very pure fruitiness here. Savoury and dry, the fine tannins really coat the mouth suggesting this will benefit from some time in the cellar. Spices and grippy acidity too, but that intense, pure fruit runs very nicely into a long finish.

(2021) Zanotto make some interesting wines up in Prosecco country. These include a 'Col Fondo' wine, an undisgorged and cloudy example. This is not that; it is more conventionally Prosecco-like, but the addition of 10% Chardonnay along with the Glera grape means it is a Vino Bianco Spumante, not DOC Prosecco. It is Extra Dry, meaning it has has 12-17g/L of residual sugar, so sweeter than 'Brut'. The sugar really isn't felt in a wine that had loads of freshness, with fresh-sliced apple fruit and acidity. There's a little background nuttiness and creaminess, and plenty of vivacious citrus tang in the finish. Watch the video for more information.

(2021) From a single vineyard on decomposed shale which is subject to ocean winds, and which Dirk believes shows some kelp character from that. Planted in 1994 as dryland bush vines.  Made with 50% whole bunches, and partly matured in barrel. A very fragrant wine this, a lovely floral character, touched by old roses and pure red and black fruits. Fine sense of minerality, and the palate has a chalky tannin character, elegant and quite soft, but beautifully balanced, the fruit sweet and central to the finish.