16/06/02 – Flagstone (South Africa) Noon Gun 2001

Flagstone (South Africa) Noon Gun 2001
What a cracking little wine from South Africa, proving that this country is more than capable of producing delicious modern wines to compete with the best of the New and Old World at the crucial 3.99 price point (the ‘everyday drinking’ target for many consumers). This beautifully aromatic wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Riesling, a little bit of which was fermented in American oak to add a touch of creamy vanilla. Otherwise this is crisp and refreshing, though with plenty of weight and texture in the mouth. The Sauvignon Blanc sings on the nose with crunchy gooseberry notes, but there’s a hint of floral, exotic, waxy lime-leaf too. On the palate creamy, full-bodied fruit is joined by juicy, crisp acidity and there is fine length. A seriously delicious and different white, and highly recommended. Oddbins, 3.99.