Winemag – Christian Eedes review of Survivor Pinotage Reserve 2021 & Survivor Chenin Blanc Reserve 2021

Survivor is the premium label from Overhex Wines International, the accomplished Pierre Wahl joining as cellarmaster at the beginning of last year. The wines are typically made in a bold style which seems to be working out as they increasingly show well in competitions. Tasting notes and ratings for two new releases as follows:

Survivor Reserve Chenin Blanc 2021
Price: R330
W.O. Swartland. 80% spontaneously fermented and mature in new 400-litre barrels, the res in second- and third-fill barrels. Quince, peach, lemon, hay, a hint of bee’s wax and vanilla on the nose. The palate is rich and relatively thick-textured – concentrated fruit, bright acidity and a very dry finish. The oak is prominent but more or less suits the wine. Alc: 13%.

CE’s rating: 90/100

Survivor Reserve Pinotage 2021
Price: R440
W.O. Swartland. Maturted for 20 months in 300-litre French oak barrels, 50% new. Floral perfume, red cherry plus hints of vanilla and oak spice on the nose. The palate is sweet and luscious with bright acidity and soft tannins. A big, generous wine – alcohol is 14.22%.

CE’s rating: 90/100.

Comment from Pierre Wahl:

Dear Christian,

Thank you for taking your time in tasting our wines and for giving your honest and humble opinion as always. As you can see by the labels, we at Survivor wines are dedicated to the terroir and want to express its unheard voice through the glass.

The use of oak has been toned down over the years, especially with use of larger oak and more blonde toasting to respect the varietal purity. The boldness you’re getting is derived from the beautiful small berries these 20+ year old bushvine vineyards are providing us, with the freshness on the palate and great longevity from the deep Swartland decomposed granite soils.

There’s a lot of exciting things happening at Survivor Wines. For now we’ll keep it hush… but we’ll be sure to send winemag.co.za some samples when our “flowers have blossomed.”

Kind regards,
Pierre Wahl
Survivor Cellar Master