Thorne & Daughters ‘Rocking Horse’ Cape White Blend 2022 is an elegant and texturally complex white blend from the Wellington region of South Africa’s Western Cape. Combining Semillon, Roussanne, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay, and Clairette, the wine showcases precision, depth, and balance, reflecting the diversity of soils and climates across the Western Cape.

Meet the producer

Founded in 2013 by John and Tasha Seccombe, Thorne & Daughters has become a leading figure in South Africa’s ‘New Wave’ wine movement. Focused on Cape white blends, the winery sources grapes from 15 different growers across regions including Bot River, Stellenbosch, Swartland, Franschhoek, Ceres Plateau, and Overberg. Their philosophy emphasises collaboration with growers and a “happy synergy of people, place, soil, and vines.”

Production

The grapes for Rocking Horse were hand-selected from multiple vineyards. Semillon comes from 39-year-old vines on alluvial soils in Franschhoek, lending intensity and texture. Roussanne and Chardonnay are sourced from younger, trellised vines in Stellenbosch, Paardeberg, and the cool Ceres Plateau. Clairette and Chenin Blanc, both from old bush vines up to 44 years old, add depth and complexity.

Grapes were whole-bunch pressed in an old Vaslin press, allowing oxidative extraction of a clear juice. After settling overnight, the juice was racked into old French oak barrels (225–600 litres) for natural fermentation and spontaneous malolactic conversion. The wine spent around 10 months on fine lees before blending and bottling, with minimal sulphur added post-vintage.

Tasting notes

The nose is layered and complex, offering aromas of kiwi fruit, ginger, apple skin, and yellow flowers. On the palate, it is tight yet rounded, with a honeyed texture and a long, almost saline finish that reflects the wine’s elegance and minerality.

Food match

Ideal with seafood, lightly spiced Asian cuisine, fresh salads, or as an aperitif.

Grape

35% Semillon, 28% Roussanne, 14% Chenin Blanc, 13% Chardonnay, 10% Clairette

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