96 pts Tim Atkin MW 2024 This pioneering white blend, paying tribute to the diversity and history of the Cape, is a cuvée of Chenin Blanc and 6% Semillon in 2023, using components from the Skurfberg, Piekenierskloof, Malmesbury, the Paardeberg, Bottelary, False Bay and (for the first time) Tygerberg. Mineral, sappy, spicy and effortlessly focused like a rifle site, it has layers of oatmeal, citrus and wet stones and a savoury finish. 2025 – 20355 Stars 2025 John Platter’s South African Wine Guide Venerable-vine chenin from far-flung areas, 7 parcels from Citrusdal Mountain through Paardeberg to False Bay coast, plus 8% Semillon from ex Franschhoek in unforgettable 23 (95 pts), a quietly delivered yet profound & ageworthy of soil & vine. Crafting is pared back, so site speaks freely: wholebunch press, natural ferment. Concrete ‘egg’, clay pot, oak (foudre & older barrel), plus or minus 12 months on gross lees, further plus or minus 5 on fine, unless noted.95 pts Vinous The 2023 Cartology has slightly more Sémillon in the blend this year (see the Producer Commentary for Chris Alheit’s reasoning why). As usual, this is a blend of what he considers to be his best parcels. It has one of the classiest bouquets you will find in a South African white this vintage: yellow fruit, a soupçon of peach skin, lanolin and whisked egg whites. Stunning delineation and purity. The palate is very well balanced with a bright and tensile opening. This has a killer line of acidity and is full of tension and complexity, concluding with a mineral-driven finish that has a slightly waxy/resinous texture. Very long. Very classy. 2025 – 204095 pts Wine Advocate June 2025 Here’s an ambitious wine that beautifully captures the quality and the aspirations of contemporary South African wine. A wine with a clear identity, the Alheit Vineyards 2023 Western Cape Cartology Bush Vines is a blend of 94% Chenin Blanc and 6% Semillon. It draws its fruit from various carefully selected parcels of bush vines in the Western Cape. It starts off slow but maintains a beautiful pace as it picks up intensity and aromas with stone fruit, sweet citrus and crushed stone. It is naturally fermented, and you taste the delicate texture of the fruit. That lasting intensity pounces up from behind and leaves you with a long-lasting sense of purity and freshness. 2024 – 2035
