Mick and Jeanine Craven embody the artisanal, natural spirit of the Cape wine scene. Their wines, crafted from single vineyard, single varietal grapes exclusively within the Stellenbosch region, are known for their minimal intervention and subtle elegance. The Cravens are dedicated to showcasing the unique terroir of Stellenbosch.

The grapes are destemmed into stainless steel open top fermenters. We work very gently with the grapes, doing a light pumpover or punch down 1-2 times a day until fermentation is complete. After pressing the wine is aged in a concrete tank for 8 months. In 2016, Deon Joubert (one of the first growers we ever worked with) called us and asked what we should plant on a rocky site over the hill from our Pinot Gris. Without hesitation we said GRENACHE! We have nurtured this little bushvine gem and watched these vines develop into something rather special. Before settling permanently in Stellenbosch, Grenache has played an important role in both of our winemaking journeys. It has been a dream come true to release this wine.

Tasting Notes: While not as crunchy as a whole-cluster style might be, this whole-berry Grenache has plenty of vim and vigor. The nose opens with notes of cranberry, sage, and cherries before leading into a wave of minerality on the palate. The tannins are chalky but refined, and the finish is long and cool like an Atlantic breeze.

Grapes from a Vlottenburg vineyard planted in 2016 and 0.7ha in size. Teasing aromatics of red and black berries, flowers, spearmint and fynbos. The palate is lean and fresh, the finish dry – much to like but there’s a sense that future vintages will be even more convincing as the vines become more established.. Alc: 12.5%. CE’s rating: 91/100