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2009 John Platter Wine Guide
Flagstone Wines earn top marks

The John Platter South African Wine Guide is the most comprehensive, up-to-date and authoritative chronicle of who’s who and what’s what in South African wine country. Every year wine lovers pore over the latest edition to see how their favourite libations have been ranked. The good news is that Fish Hoek and Flagstone have both score exceptionally well in the 2009 guide.

The Fish Hoek range averaged three stars out of a possible five, with the Merlot judged “ exceptionally drinkable and well priced” . The Sauvignon Blanc was deemed “ perfectly shaped” with a “ lip-smacking freshness” . The Fish Hoek Shiraz “ epitomises uncomplicated drinkability” , exactly how winemaker Bruce Jack envisioned the Fish Hoek range.

Nine wines from the premium Flagstone range got four stars each: Music Room Cabernet Sauvignon 2004; Fiona Pinot Noir 2007; Writer’ s Block Pinotage 2006; Dark Horse Shiraz 2006; newcomer Secret Handshake 2004 (unusual “ smoked beef, dried herbs and dusty tannins” ); Dragon Tree blend red 2005; Mary le Bow 2005 red blend; Fiona Sauvignon Blanc 2007 and Two Roads white blend 2005.

Free Run Sauvignon Blanc improved on its 2008 rating, garnering four stars this year and being considered good enough to cellar. A “ good value” award went to Longitude 2006 retaining “ the curvaceous lines and smooth texture its many fans have come to expect.”