ALHEIT VINEYARDS Chenin Blanc 'Radio Lazarus' 2015


2016 TOP 100 WINES | Rank #10


The 2015 'Radio Lazarus' is a completely spectacular wine from Chris and Suzaan Alheit and one of the most compelling Chenin Blanc's I have ever tasted from South Africa. This vintage is the first in which Radio Lazarus comes from two separate blocks. These blocks of old bush vines are some of the most extreme in the cape, one block planted in 1978 is perched on top of a hill called Ribbokkop, which is situated 403 meters above sea level, and the other planted in 1971 at 450 meters above sea level. Although the soil compositions of shale and granite are similar in both blocks, each adds its own unique touch to the wine. As this wine opens it releases gorgeous aromas of orchard fruit and white peaches with notes of honeysuckle, orange zest, floral, saline minerals and a dusty character all coming together beautifully. It continues to impress as it demonstrates remarkable overall balance and precision with a wonderful textural richness that is backed by lively acidity and mineral streaks through the elegant finish. Although this is already absolutely outstanding, I expect this will age beautifully over the next decade and even beyond. Another interesting thing to note is the wine is fermented in large clay pots made by a potter living in Hout Bay who uses clay from the brickfield at the foot of the Bottelary hills, further adding to its origin and character. This wine deserves a place amongst the worlds best Chenin Blanc and is a true testament to the level of quality that can be achieved in the region. (Best 2016-2027) - November, 2016 (JD)


Wine Specifications


  • Report Date: November, 2016
  • Producer: Alheit Vineyards
  • Vintage: 2015
  • Drinking Window: 2016-2027
  • Suggested Value: $99
  • Country: South Africa
  • Region: Coastal Region
  • Appellation: Stellenbosch
  • Importer: Broadbent Selections

ALHEIT RADIO LAZARUS

We use cookies on our website. Some of them are essential for the operation of the site, while others help us to improve this site and the user experience (tracking cookies). You can decide for yourself whether you want to allow cookies or not. Please note that if you reject them, you may not be able to use all the functionalities of the site.