Lourens Lua Ilse Single Vineyard Grenache 2023

Winemaker Franco Lourens says his aim is to create a wine with both ‘power and finesse’ and this, he feels, is what the combination of elevation and light sandy soils of the Piekenierskloof imbues. Grapes were spontaneously fermented, with 25% stem inclusion. Opening aromatics of iron and flowers with a cool mineral undertone. The mouthfeel is voluminous, with a mouthcoating generosity of plum fruit shaded in with the faintest etch of tannins. Bright, energetic yet structurally composed; Lourens has achieved what he has set out to do. From a single vineyard. Drinking window: 2025-2033. Score – 95. (Malu Lambert, decanter.com, April 17, 2025)