Tasting Notes
The Wanderlust project allows Craig Wessels to flex his creative muscles – the wine changes every year. And in 2020, it's a mega field blend of eight varieties sourced from a local nursery vineyard which grows 170+ different varieties. "Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Ruby Cabernet, Cinsault, Malbec, Barbera, Tinta Barocca and Roussanne. The 10%-15% Roussanne lifts what could be quite a heady, brooding blend, adding a touch of lightness and waxiness to all that red fruit and tannin. Dark chocolate on the nose, with some baking spice and blackcurrant fruit. Bold, chunky palate with mulberry fruit and liquorice. Big tannins are tamed by time in barrel. Drink 2023-2030, 91 points." Chris Wilson, Decanter Magazine
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Restless River is a rising star that has quietly achieved cult-status for its brilliant, Burgundian-style Chardonnay and ultra-elegant Cabernet Sauvignon. Launched in 2012 by Craig Wessels, who, alongside his successful career in digital production, also raced motorbikes and flew helicopters around the Cape, along with his ex-model wife Anne, their farm is located in the beautiful Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. Its home to some of the oldest Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay vines in the region (planted in 1998). At Restless River, things are done in an unhurried way, with great dedication and attention to detail. Almost all their production is done by hand, resulting in limited quantities of each wine, and demand far exceeding supply. Restless River is defined by its terroir, and Craig Wessels' thoughtful and careful winemaking allows it to be the star of the show.