Alheit La Colline Semillon Western Cape 2015

96 points Wine Magazine (South Africa): “Previously bottled as Arrow Heart, this is from a Franschhoek vineyard of Semillon and Semillon Gris planted in in 1936. Bottled unfined and unfiltered, there is a definite cloudy quality to its appearance. On the nose, there is an intriguing smoking note before pear, white peach, tangerine and spice. The palate possesses unusual presence, which is to say it displays particular depth and breadth. Unconventional but utterly complelling. Total production: 1,086 bottles.”

93 points Neal Martin (Wine Advocate): “The 2015 La Colline Vineyard comes from vines planted back in 1936 on the southern slope in Franschhoek Valley. It offers enticing aromas of yellow plum, Jasmine, sea spray and a hint of custard cremes. The palate is very well balanced with nectarine and yellow plum, a fine line of acidity, very succinct and understated, but it comes armed with a long saline finish. Yet more enticing and cerebral fermented grape juice courtesy of Chris Alheit. Drink 2017-2029.” (Apr 2017)

92 points Stephen Tanzer (Vinous): “(includes interplanted dark- and light-skinned Sémillon grapes picked and vinified together): Medium yellow. Some slightly advanced notes of apple, orange zest, honey and macadamia on the deep nose. Velvety, ripe and broad on the palate, and clearly fresher than the nose suggests, hinting at orange zest and minerals. The very tactile, slightly phenolic finish avoids any rough edges. Seriously mouthfilling wine with lemon drop and orange notes on the subtly rising finish. This fascinating Sémillon may well offer more fireworks with time in the cellar. These Alheit white wines are awfully complex! Drink 2018-2024.” (May 2017)