The Antares Field Blend is a new release from young winemaker Jos van Wyk, best known for his work at Marianne Winery in Stellenbosch. It comes from a vineyard planted in 2020 on a small farm in the Buffeljags River ward near Swellendam, Western Cape. Produced at Le Lit de Franken, Antares is conceived as an “ever-changing field blend”, reflecting the dynamic character of the site and Jos’s innovative approach, while his day job remains at the Stellenbosch property Marianne.

There are not too many field blend whites produced in South Africa, but this Antares 2023 is certainly an exciting addition to the category. Made from a blend of 52% Chenin Blanc, 32% Semillon and 16% Sauvignon Blanc, the wine stands crystal clear and star bright in the glass with just a faint pale white gold hue. 

Aged - Done in older french barrels and also a demi John. With 8% malotactic

900 bottles made

The 2024 vintage saw a moderate spring, a rainy late December and a warm January, with all components (52% Chenin Blanc, 32% Semillon and 16% Sauvignon Blanc) harvested together on 3 February. Maturation lasted 10 months in 90% older French oak and 10% glass demijohns, the latter undergoing malolactic conversion. The nose shows pear, peach, lime, bell pepper, green melon, fynbos and potpourri, while the palate offers pure fruit, bright acidity and a dry finish. The acidity is initially quite assertive, yet there’s enough fruit weight to provide balance, and the wine ultimately drinks very well indeed. Alc: 12.54%. CE’s rating: 94/100.

ANALYSIS: ALC 12.54% | TA 5.6g/L | pH 3.36 | RS 1.4g/L