After focusing on single cultivar Cinsault, Grenache, Chenin Blanc and Colombard for several years, in 2023, Ian Naude was finally tempted to dabble again with another white blend for the first time since 2010. The 2023 Soutbos was the result, and the wine was a veritable revelation (scoring 97/100 GSMW), adding to the growing number of slightly excentric but deliciously unique premium white blends from top producers such as Sadie Family Wines’ Skerpioen and Sakkie Mouton’s Full On Misfit, which is also made from Vredendal, West Coast fruit.

Happily for Ian’s legion of supporters and fine wine collectors, the 2024 Soutbos is about to hit the market and sticks to the winning formula of a 25% Old Vine Chenin Blanc (planted 1988) and 75% Old Vine Colombar (planted 1983) blend. Picked in small crates, from the truck and straight into whole-bunch pressing. Natural fermentation started after about three days. Thereafter the wine was kept on the lees for as long as possible, because that is where the “magic” happens as complex flavours and textural layers develop. “Because nature has already done the hard work, the winemaking process is kept as natural as possible with minimal interference” says Ian. 

Naude Family Wines Soutbos White Blend 2024, WO Cape West Coast, 12% Abv.

1.0g/l RS | 6.3g/l TA | 3.4 pH

The 2024 is delightfully cool, fresh, and crystalline, initially boasting bold Chenin Blanc notes of yellow orchard fruits, wet straw, and white peach before slowly revealing subtle Colombard hints of green apples, ripe guavas, and sherbet dusted white citrus bon bons. There are intricate accompanying notes of sweet fynbos, wet stone minerality and subtle saline maritime sea breeze hints that tip their hat towards the Weskus terroir. On the palate the concentration is notable yet subtle and understated, showing layers of white peach, guava roll, Granny Smith apples and apricot skins with tight knit, glycerol, textured layers that carry the fruit persistence with real purpose on the finish. A deliciously complex, suave offering that will, once again, appeal to dedicated South African white blend lovers. Drink now and over the next 8 to 10+ years.

(Wine Safari Score: 96/100 Greg Sherwood MW)