February 20, 2025
Spotlight on Reyneke - Great value wines from Stellenbosch
Producer Spotlight: Reyneke, Stellenbosch
Rated as a South African First Growth by Tim Atkin MW
A true maverick in South African wine, Reyneke defies convention, crafting biodynamic wines that remain remarkably well-priced—a reflection of Johan Reyneke’s belief that great wine should be accessible to everyone. Critics like Neal Martin, Tim Atkin, and Jancis Robinson praise his work, and his passion for winemaking and sustainability is truly inspiring. Watch the attached video to hear Johan discuss his biodynamic philosophy, winemaking approach, and love for surfing.
“One of Stellenbosch’s finest estates... Reyneke’s wines are cerebral and intellectual, surfeit in character and individuality." - Neal Martin, Vinous
We encourage you to watch this video:
Reyneke Winery stands as a pioneer in biodynamic winemaking, redefining sustainable viticulture in South Africa since its inception in 1988. Under the leadership of Johan Reyneke, the estate became the first Demeter-certified biodynamic winery in the country, setting a benchmark for purity and terroir expression. Located in Stellenbosch, the estate focuses on Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc, producing wines that reflect the rhythms of nature. Reyneke’s commitment to organic and biodynamic farming not only enhances the vineyard’s health but also results in wines with exceptional character, balance, and depth.
Among the estate’s impressive portfolio, the Reserve range stands at the pinnacle, produced only in exceptional vintages from the finest vineyard sites. These wines, crafted with minimal intervention, have earned consistent acclaim from critics, with Neal Martin of Vinous calling Reyneke "one of Stellenbosch’s finest estates." The Reserve White, often compared to great Pouilly-Fumé, has been hailed by Jancis Robinson as one of the most beautiful Sauvignon Blancs in the world. Meanwhile, the Reserve Red delivers profound depth and structure, standing alongside South Africa’s best. Despite their world-class quality, Reyneke’s wines remain remarkably well-priced, offering exceptional value for those seeking thought-provoking, terroir-driven wines.
We have a selection of this wines available with some in stock, and some coming into stock in a couple of weeks. We invite you to explore the range.
Reyneke Reserve Red
96 Points | Tim Atkin MW
Johan Reyneke sets aside a 0.5-hectare corner of a larger two-hectare parcel to produce this world-class Polkadraai Hills Syrah. Very much a granite-influenced style, this is earthy, intense and savoury, all clove, white pepper, bramble and blackberry fruit with a twist of stem ginger. 2024-32
Reyneke Reserve White 2018
96 points | Tim Atkin MW
A welcome relief from the blandness of many commercial Sauvignon Blancs, this is an ambitious, dynamically farmed white from the brilliant team at Reyneke. Sappy, reductive and nettley, with a flinty note that's reminiscent of a great Pouilly-Fumé and a long, saline finish. 2020-24
94 points | Vinous, Neal Martin
The 2018 White Reserve Biodynamic comprises whole-bunch-pressed Sauvignon Blanc fermented on the lees in barrel for 11 months. It has a beguiling nose that stops you in your tracks, presenting a mixture of yellow flowers, gooseberry tart, orange blossom and just a very slight reduction that works in its favor. The palate is wonderfully balanced, harmonious and nuanced, offering a fine bead of acidity and delicate kiwi fruit, nettle and dandelion notes intermixed with Granny Smith apples on the finish. Clever winemaking.