A new chapter unfolds, as we unveil the highly anticipated Book XVII 2023 vintage, an uncompromising pursuit of perfection drawn from centuries of viticultural wisdom.
Inspired by Pliny the Elder’s 17th book of “Natural History,” Book XVII is a tribute to the noble pursuit of winemaking, meticulously crafted to rival the world’s most illustrious wines. The 2023 vintage stands as a testament to this ambition.
A Vintage Forged by Nature and Precision
2023 was defined by a cool, dry growing season, punctuated by a wetter March harvest. These demanding conditions required unparalleled precision from our winemaking team, leaving very little margin for error. Thus, each decision, from harvest timing to fermentation management and barrel selection, was put under the microscope.
Adding to the precision, a team of five dedicated women conducted meticulous berry selection by hand, ensuring that only the finest fruit contributed to this exceptional vintage. No grape was left unturned.
This vintage showcases a remarkable harmony between power and finesse. The cooler season nurtured dense, concentrated tannins while maintaining a vibrant thread of acidity and mineral tension. The result is a wine that is simultaneously more opulent and polished than previous vintages, yet retains its signature structure and elegance.
A Masterful Expression
Every element was crafted with obsessive detail. Aged for 22 months in our climatised maturation room at 14°C and 80% humidity, this vintage rested exclusively in 100% new French oak barrels, with only five barrels produced. Each barrel plays a crucial role in shaping the wine’s final expression.
Book XVII 2023 displays excellent balance between dark and red fruit concentration, alongside plush spiciness. One word that comes to mind when tasting this wine is purity.
It is a wine that pairs beautifully with contemplative moments.
Limited to a mere 1,397 bottles, Book XVII 2023 is destined to become a coveted rarity in any connoisseur’s collection. While undeniably impressive now, its true brilliance will unfold from 2030 onwards, evolving into an even more harmonious and profound expression of the Polkadraai terroir.
Tasting Notes
Book XVII 2023 is a blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Cabernet Franc, and 20% Malbec, with each varietal contributing its distinct personality. Cabernet Sauvignon delivers dark fruit concentration and commanding structure. Cabernet Franc imparts red fruit brightness and refined aromatics. Malbec adds an exotic layer of plush spiciness, bringing luxurious depth to the blend.
A vintage to be savoured and remembered for years to come.
