The 2024 Hanneli R is a blend of 54% Cabernet Sauvignon and 46% Shiraz. The Cabernet Sauvignon originates from the Helderberg area of Stellenbosch, while the Shiraz comes from Elim in the Agulhas region.
The growing season started well. Increased moisture resulted in some disease pressure, but the winds that followed later in the season created drier, healthier conditions. Vineyard development caught up during the hot, dry summer, and harvesting eventually commenced earlier than in the previous two years. The 2024 vintage shows considerable promise for red wines
The Cabernet Sauvignon vineyards are trellised and planted on the first prominent hills, approximately 7 km from the False Bay coast. The soils consist of weathered granite and shale, offering good drainage together with waterretention capacity. Coffee-rock gravel is also visible in the vineyard. The trellised Elim Shiraz is planted on shalederived soils, with layers of clay beneath stone and gravelly topsoil. Situated approximately 15 km from the Indian Ocean, the vineyard benefits from a cool, windy climate.
The grapes were harvested separately and fermented in stainless-steel tanks with regular pump-overs. Following primary fermentation, the wine was transferred to 300-litre French oak barrels. The Cabernet Sauvignon was matured in 100% new French oak for 18 months, while 28% of the Shiraz was matured in new barrels and the remainder in older barrels. The components were subsequently blended and the wine was bottled in April 2026.
This wine is a blend of the best wines of the vintage and a tribute to La Motte’s owner, Hanneli Rupert. The Cabernet Sauvignon contributes red-berry fruit, earthy savouriness and structure, while the cool-climate Shiraz brings violet perfume and peppery spice. Together, the varieties create a rich, balanced wine with depth and character.
Alcohol: 13.61% vol
pH: 3.49
Total Acid: 5.8 g/l
Residual Sugar: 2.5 g/l
