Alheit Nautical Dawn 2023 1.5 Litre Magnum

Secure a masterpiece of South African viticulture with the Alheit Nautical Dawn 2023 Magnum. This rare 1.5-litre format represents the absolute pinnacle of coastal Chenin Blanc. The wine originates from a single parcel of dry-farmed bush vines planted in 1978. These vines grow on the granite-rich upper slopes of Sinai Hill in southern Stellenbosch. You will experience a wine that reflects the “cold salty slap” of the False Bay breeze. The nose offers a complex bouquet of tangy yellow fruit, sweet herbs, and flinty reduction. On the palate, the wine delivers a full-bodied, energetic drive with a distinct saline tension. This larger bottle format provides the perfect environment for the wine’s “ornate” finish and structural intensity to mature over many years.

The Alheit Nautical Dawn 2023 made history by earning a perfect 100-point score from Tim Atkin MW. He named it the “Overall White Wine of the Year,” praising its incredible extract and umami notes. Neal Martin of Vinous also recognized the vintage with a 95-point rating, highlighting its energy and tropical nuances. Christian Eedes of Winemag awarded it 95 points, noting its pure fruit delineation and snappy acidity. Due to strict selection during a wet vintage, Alheit produced only about half the normal volume. This scarcity makes the 90 to 100 magnums produced globally an essential acquisition for any elite wine collection. You should pair this saline white with creamy buttery sauces, grilled seafood, or rich shellfish.