Wine of the Week: 2013 Alheit Vineyards Bush Vines ‘Cartology’

This is a very unusual wine from South Africa. Mostly old-vine Chenin Blanc with just 12 percent Semillon in the blend, the 2013 Alheit Vineyards “Cartology” is elegant and refined, with an opulent scent of apricot, lemon and flowers. The taste is ripe and lush, but there’s a tautness and minerality to the Chenin Blanc/Semillon that brings it all into balance. This is a real stunner that just keeps getting better and better in the glass. Perfect for a special dinner party over the holidays. This would be a terrific match with butter-poached lobster, Dungeness crab or pan-seared Tasmanian ocean trout.

Region: South Africa

Price: $50 to $53