A Whole Bunch Wines Guide To Gabriëlskloof
It's the Whole Bunch Wines Guide to Garbriëlskloof. An esteemed South African producer who are creating new and exciting wines which often defy convention, while retaining that classic lekker feel.
Gabriëlskloof are a top producer and we stock a number of options, but let's tell you a bit more about the people behind the wine.
The History of Gabriëlskloof
Gabriëlskloof was founded in 2001, but at this time the land was dedicated to wheat and sheep. Slowly, wine was introduced and now there are over 60 hectares of vines. The winemaking is innovating and precise, as well as sustainable.
Gabriëlskloof emphasises the use of indigenous yeast, whole bunch fermentation and ageing in amphora and older oak. All this is done to emphasise the flavours of the fruit and the terroir. Gabriëlskloof continues to grow and was named as a ‘First Growth’ by Tim Atkin in 2023 and 2024. This shows you the level of reverence with which these wines are treated.
The Vines and Wines of Gabriëlskloof
Gabriëlskloof sit on the Bot River valley between the Houwhoek and Babylonstoren mountain ranges. Despite these mountain ranges, the sea breezes still float through the vineyards as it sits just 15km from the Atlantic ocean.
While the methods used are unique and exciting, the grape varieties within them are classic South African. Bordeaux red grapes, Syrah, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon in particular.
Gabriëlskloof benefits from two distinct soil types in the farm - shale and sandstone. They help layer in more complexity to these rich wines. The general vineyard site is extreme in conditions and subject to blustering winds. The stress the vines are under limit yields and ramp up the concentration in the final product.
What Do We Stock...
Whole Bunch Wines is proud to stock a few different examples of Gabriëlskloof wines. If you love excellent South African wine, then keep reading for some delicious tipples.
Gabriëlskloof Whole Bunch Syrah [£31.50]
- A wine which is absolutely bursting with flavour and we're proud to share the 'Whole Bunch' name with it. This still retains that pure black fruit and white pepper flavours of high-end Syrah, but a punch more freshness and sweet fruit flavours. Buy Now
Gabriëlskloof 'The Blend' [£21.50]
- We were blown away by the quality of this wine, when you consider the price point. A classic Blend of five Bordeaux red grape varieties and it delivers that complexity of premium French wine that'd cost you 3 or 4 times as much! Buy Now
Gabriëlskloof Magdalena Semillon [£37.50]
- Another Bordeaux classic that has had new life breathed into it by these fabulous winemakers. It retains that punchy citrus-forward notes, while also layering in beautiful notes of almond and honey. Wow, oh wow! Buy Now
Don't Miss Out!
Make sure to check out our wine tastings and monthly wine club, if you want to try great wines like the ones mentioned in this blog post. Links below:
- Manchester Wine Tastings & Events
- Sauce Subscription (Monthly Wine Club)