Cultivars:
66% Sauvignon Blanc, 27% Sémillon, 7% Sauvignon Gris
Winemaking Method and Maturation:
Only the best vines on the estate are used in the Isliedh blend. The estate is positioned on the narrow Cape Peninsula, where the confluence of sea breezes from the cold Atlantic Ocean, less than one mile away, and the southeasterly breezes from False Bay, create ideal conditions for the slow ripening of grapes. The breezes, along with good canopy management, help to keep the vines healthy and diseases at bay, reducing the need for treatments. When the winds are strong, they also control the vine’s vigour and encourage a second suckering.
The Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon grapes for the Isliedh wine are hand-selected from two specific vineyard parcels, facing the toughest conditions on the sea-facing mountain slope of the estate. Here, the severe winds and rocky, decomposed granite soils result in tiny bunches packed with wonderful complexity and signature mineral quality. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested.
Isliedh is a remarkable combination of coastal Cape Sauvignon Blanc drenched in richly textured Sémillon.
The grapes were 100% barrel-fermented with wild, natural yeasts, followed by maturation on the fine fermentation lees for 16 months, in old French Oak.
Wine Tasting Notes:
On colour: Cape Point Isliedh 2023 presents a vivid, straw gold hue in the glass, promising vibrancy and depth typical of an elegant, oak-aged blend from coastal vineyards.
On the nose: The aroma unfolds with a harmonious mix of floral notes—jasmine and white peach blossom—alongside ripe stone fruits such as nectarine and white peach. Layers of grapefruit, fig, and lemon curd intermingle with delicate hints of mineral and a subtle, creamy oak presence, all accentuated by an underlying saline freshness from its ocean-influenced terroir.
On the palate: The wine displays a beautifully textured structure, medium-bodied yet opulent and layered. Flavours of nectarine, pink grapefruit, fig, and honeydew melon are enveloped in a creamy mouthfeel, underpinned by a lively acidity and distinctive mineral tension. Gentle spice from well-integrated oak and a touch of herbal complexity enhance the richness, ending with a long, persistent, and savory finish that perfectly balances ripeness with precision.
On the whole: A remarkable and sophisticated white blend—complex, mineral-driven, and exceptionally refined.
Food and Wine Pairing Suggestions:
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Chinese Steamed Fish with Ginger and Soy: The citrus notes and bright freshness lift delicate fish, while the textural richness matches with soy and ginger.
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Honey-glazed Ham: Sweetness from the ham pairs well with ripe stone fruit notes and the wine's subtle creaminess.
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Aged Gruyère: The wine's complexity and slight nuttiness echo the depth and saltiness of gruyère.
| Alcohol |
13.5% |
| Residual sugar |
1.7g/L |
| Acidity |
High |
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Region |
Cape Town
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Producer |
Cape Point
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