Alheit Vineyards Cartology 2023

This is one of the true bargains of the South African fine wine scene and the 2023 is the best yet. We can’t endorse this wine more and recommend adding a few bottles or cases to your collection.

The wine is mineral-driven, tense and complex, with layers of citrus, wet stone, and savoury spice. Stunning purity, bright acidity and a long, mineral finish. Chris Alheit continues to refine his approach, incorporating larger vessels, concrete tanks and foudres, enhancing precision and elegance. With exceptional balance and ageing potential, Cartology 2023 is not to be missed.

96 Points | Tim Atkin MW

This pioneering white blend, paying tribute to the diversity and history of the Cape, is a cuvée of Chenin Blanc and 6% Semillon in 2023, using components from the Skurfberg, Piekenierskloof, Malmesbury, the Paardeberg, Bottelary, False Bay and (for the first time) Tygerberg. Mineral, sappy, spicy and effortlessly focused like a rifle site, it has layers of oatmeal, citrus and wet stones and a savoury finish.

95 Points | Vinous, Neal Martin

The 2023 Cartology has slightly more Sémillon in the blend this year (see the Producer Commentary for Chris Alheit's reasoning why). As usual, this is a blend of what he considers to be his best parcels. It has one of the classiest bouquets you will find in a South African white this vintage: yellow fruit, a soupçon of peach skin, lanolin and whisked egg whites. Stunning delineation and purity. The palate is very well balanced with a bright and tensile opening. This has a killer line of acidity and is full of tension and complexity, concluding with a mineral-driven finish that has a slightly waxy/resinous texture. Very long. Very classy.