Alheit Vineyards - Stellenbosch Nautical Dawn 2024
98/100
Robert Parker
95/100
James Suckling
95/100
Vinous
“A true benchmark for South African Chenin Blanc, according to Robert Parker—for winemakers and wine lovers alike!”
“The ‘Nautical Dawn’ 2024 [...] exudes remarkable energy and liveliness from the very first sips. The sea breezes and cool air from False Bay impart a slight hint of saltiness that translates into a subtle briny note in the glass. It offers clarity and dynamism, with a tension balanced by the fruity depth of the aromas. This is an exceptional wine that should serve as a benchmark for South African Chenin Blanc, for both winemakers and wine lovers alike. 2026–2040” (Robert Parker 2026)
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Eye
Golden color with silver highlights, brilliant luster
Nose
Aromas of tart yellow fruits: lemon zest and pink grapefruit, accompanied by subtle notes of honeysuckle and mild spices
Palate
Power and richness are balanced by a lovely liveliness throughout the palate, with elegant aromas that echo the nose, and a long, refined finish featuring the salty notes typical of the terroir
Serve
At 10-12°C
Open
1 to 2 hours before
Drink from
2025
Drink before
2045
Food and wine pairings
Enjoy it with grilled sea bass fillet, ginger-flavored scallops, or sole fillet with asparagus...
Robert Parker - Wine Advocate
Wine rated (2026 guide) 98/100 (Exceptional)
About the wine:
Alheit Vineyards’ 2024 “Nautical Dawn,” from Stellenbosch, is grown on the region’s granitic soils. The vines, planted in 1978, are now entering a particularly alluring phase of maturity. More open and lively than its Swartland counterpart, “Fire by Night,” this wine exudes remarkable energy and vibrancy from the very first sips. The sea breezes and cool air from False Bay impart a slight touch of sodium, resulting in a subtle salty note in the glass. It offers clarity and dynamism, with a tension balanced by the fruity depth of the aromas. This is an exceptional wine that should serve as a benchmark for South African Chenin Blanc, for both winemakers and wine lovers alike. 2026–2040
Wine Spectator
Rated estate (2021 guide) Recommended (Wine producer recommended by Wine Spectator)
Vinous
Wine rated (2025 guide) 95/100
About the wine:
The Nautical Dawn 2024 comes from bush-trained vines planted in southern Stellenbosch in 1978. It’s a bit more expressive on the nose than the Fire By Night: orange zest, notes of honeysuckle and melted wax. Magnificent definition. The palate is energetic and taut, slightly spicier than the “Fire,” with a hint of lemongrass that brightens the captivating finish. Alheit’s best in 2024? It’s quite possible. 2026–2045
James Suckling
Wine rated (2025 guide) 95/100
About the wine:
On the nose, this creamy and delicious white wine reveals aromas of sliced apples, fresh pears, and lemons, with notes of cashews and white sesame seeds. It is medium-bodied to full-bodied, with a zesty, salty liveliness and a creamy character of white nuts. It’s hard not to drink it. Made from old bush vines grown on a granite hillside, planted in 1978. Enjoy now or cellar.
Tim Atkin
Rated estate (2020 guide) Recommended
1JOUR1VIN PRICE
61
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