Wines Hemel-en-Aarde Bosman - 2023 - 2023

Viniou Reviews

Bosman’s 2023 white cuvée from Hemel-en-Aarde is an excellent representation of South Africa’s burgeoning white wine scene. While the precise grape blend is not specified, Hemel-en-Aarde is famed for its Burgundian varietals, particularly Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, often producing complex, well-structured blends with crisp acidity and vibrant fruit. The 2023 vintage is likely marked by freshness and finesse, considering the relatively cool climate and the meticulous approach typical to both Bosman and the region’s leading producers. Expect a wine that balances bright citrus and stone fruit notes with subtle minerality, possibly complemented by floral nuances and a hint of spice from delicate oak aging or lees contact.

Hemel-en-Aarde, translating to “Heaven and Earth”, sits close to the southern coast near Hermanus, benefiting from cooling ocean breezes of the Atlantic. The climate is temperate with pronounced maritime influences, resulting in a prolonged growing season that favours slow grape maturation and the retention of lively acidity. The soils in this region are predominantly clay and shale, offering excellent drainage and contributing to wines with depth, texture, and distinctive minerality. The area is relatively young in South Africa’s winemaking history, but it has rapidly become renowned for producing elegant, cool-climate wines that stand comfortably alongside those from Europe’s more established regions.

When it comes to food pairing, this vibrant South African white is a versatile companion. Its fresh acidity and layered fruit make it particularly appealing with seafood such as oysters, grilled prawns, or pan-seared fish, accentuating the wine’s zesty lift. It would also pair delightfully with creamy goat’s cheese, summer salads featuring citrus or stone fruits, and regional Cape Malay dishes such as pickled fish or mildly spiced chicken curry, both of which will highlight the wine’s aromatic complexity.

For the optimal enjoyment, serve this white cuvée well-chilled, ideally between 8-10°C. This temperature will bring forward its freshness and aromatic intensity while preserving the hallmark vibrancy of Hemel-en-Aarde’s terroir. Decanting is not necessary for such a young, energetic white, but allowing it a few minutes in the glass will let it unfold its subtleties.