2021 Alheit Vineyards Nautical Dawn

The 2021 Nautical Dawn, from vines grown on granite soils, has a backward bouquet that demands more coaxing than the previous vintage. Eventually it reveals attractive sea spray, petrichor and subtle, pressed white flower scents. The palate is taut and linear on the entry with impressive depth; the 2021 is a little strict at first but reveals discrete lanolin and grilled hazelnut scents with time. Persistent, yet you get the feeling that it`s hiding something up its sleeve. Be patient with this one. 93+ points

Very fresh nose and lively, dancing palate with – autosuggestion? – a hint of salinity. Long. Not unlike molten lemon cough sweets. 17.5 points