The Luddite estate is situated on the eastern slopes of the Houw Hoek mountains, 1.5km from the village of Bot River in the Stellenbosch region of the Western Cape and has been run by Niels and Penny Verburg since 1999, although the first vintage was not released until 2004. There are 17 hectares in all with around 5.5ha under vine. The cool, south-east facing slopes catch the morning sun and are ideal for lengthy ripening and for producing particularly spicy Shiraz and gentle Chenin Blanc grapes. The Chenin Blanc is picked earlier than other grapes to retain its natural acidity and freshness and after natural fermentation the wine is aged on its lees in old oak barrels for 12 months. Only 1000 bottles were produced so availability is necessarily limited.
A rich golden in colour. Scents of peach and star anise. On the palate, clean and refreshing with a spicy acidity and lingering finish. Great with courgette soufflé with goats cheese and pancetta, chicken liver parfait with apple chutney or a simple risotto with white wine and Parmesan cheese.