Anwilka Petit Frère 2018

Petit Frère (the 'Little Brother' at Anwilka) is a certified organic red blend from South Africa that we tasted and loved. The Anwilka winery was founded in the late 1990's by former Klein Constantia owner Lowell Jooste in partnership with internationally renowned Bordeaux producers Hubert de Boüard (co-owner of Château Angélus in Saint Emilion) and Bruno Prats (former owner of Château Cos d’Estournel in Saint- Estèphe). Their singular goal was to create an exceptional South African red wine by combining great winemaking traditions and innovations.

“When we arrived in South Africa, I was very attracted by the fact that soils were very adapted for the production of great wines. I am confident, that Anwilka has the potential to make one of the best red wines ever produced in South Africa."- Hubert de Boüard de Laforest, co-owner of Chateau Angelus & Klein Constantia

Anwilka is located in Stellenbosch’s prime Helderberg ward. Affectionately known as ‘the Golden Triangle’ thanks to its specific microclimate and diverse soil types that produce some of the world’s best red wines, the Helderberg stretches from the edge of Stellenbosch to Somerset West. Anwilka is a mere 7km from the ocean and comprises almost 40 hectares of vineyards, now planted with mostly Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Based in the Helderberg area of Stellenbosch with views of False Bay, the 40 hectare red wine property is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Petit Verdot and Malbec. Proximity to sea provides a specific microclimate that, together with the old ferri crete soils, produces rich and focused wines. 

Conditions leading up to the growing season followed by a consistently warm summer ensured even ripening. The hot and dry conditions meant smaller berries with good concentration. The grapes are hand picked in small crates in the early hours of the morning, ensuring cool grapes arrived in the cellar. Sorting happens both before and after destemming. Alcoholic fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks. Gentle punch downs by hand, pump-overs and ten days of post fermentation maceration enable a soft extraction of color and tannins. Matured in combination of 20% new French Oak 400 litre barrels and stainless steel.

The opaque ruby core is edged by a brightly youthful magenta rim. Aromas of abundant plums, vanilla and gently roasted spices pour forth from the glass. Petite Frère's plush core of dense, sweetly ripe dark fruit, laced with chocolate and spice is underpinned by supple oak tannins and bright acidity. All of this leading to a full, dry and savory finish.