Iona Sauvignon Blanc 2017

The wines of Iona come from a dramatically unique site in the Cape Winelands.The vineyards are on a mountain plateau 420 metres above sea level, surrounded by the Kogelberg Nature Reserve, and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. In a country where cool sites are precious, these vineyards are like gold — the grapes ripening up to two months later than other Cape vineyards and in perfect balance. Iona is South Africa’s coolest vineyard site

Fragrance of pure white grapefruit, intense tropical fruit, ripe gooseberry and fleshy kiwi fruit over-lay Iona’s distinctive herbal and floral undertones. The palate is keenly balanced showing cut green apples and lime marmalade followed by great minerality and length.

Including 4% Semillon, this wine from Elgin producer Iona is extraordinarily expressive right now with notes of granadilla and pineapple to the fore on the nose but also lime and a little jasmine. The palate is fairly bursting with fruit offset by racy acidity, the finish long and dry. Just about critic proof.