The sensational Rocking Horse Cape white blend from winemaker John Seccombe, is a eclectic blend of Roussanne, Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc and Semillon from vineyards between 19 and 34 years old. 

All naturally fermented with wild yeasts, with whole bunch pressing, using no new oak, and bâtonnage employed once a month. The lovely name comes from a rocking horse made for John’’s oldest daughter out of old oak barrel staves.

Thorne & Daughters Rocking Horse 2014, 13.5 Abv., WO Western Cape 

Tasting Note: The 2014 vintage of this Cape white blend is a blend of 35% Chenin Blanc (Bottelary and Swartland), 28% Roussanne (Voor Paardeberg), 22% Semillon (Franschhoek), 14% Chardonnay and 1% Viognier (both Overberg) that was matured in old oak for approximately 10 months. A medium straw colour, the nose is jam packed with complex lemon biscuit, lemon creme pie, pineapple pastille fruits, red liquorice, sweet fennel and vanilla pod spice. These flavours follow to a voluptuous, fleshy palate where the flavours meld into a seductive, seamlessly balanced yellow fruit melange framed by subtle creamy oak notes and a vibrant, mouth watering acidity. Such intensity, depth and flavourful length. This is another epic rendition of a Chenin led blend that’s drinking beautifully. Will be interesting to see how this wine ages. Drink now to 2022+ (Wine Safari Score: 95/100 Greg Sherwood MW)