Hermanuspietersfontein Die Arnoldus 2012 (Magnum)

The name originates from the founder of Hermanus Hermanus Pieters who in 1855 helped take a little fisherman’s village and turn it into the town it is today. This name has given them the title of longest Afrikaans name for a cellar in the world. Their wines are just as uniquely named with the HPF brand being the only wine cellar in South Africa to use Afrikaans-only names. The non-serious attitude has also led to a well-loved reputation as a fun and laid-back winery with the owner commenting that “while we don’t take ourselves seriously we’re serious about making good wines”.

Cab-led but incorporating the other four Bordeaux varieties, matured for 26 months in 100% new oak. Red and black fruit, some leafiness plus oak spice on the nose. The palate is quite lean with fresh acidity and firm tannins. Austere and unflashy, this should benefit from some time in bottle.