False Bay Vineyards, 'Windswept' Sauvignon Blanc, 2025, Coastal Region (WO)

'One-Liner'
Seaside Sauvignon with the volume turned down – crisp citrus, green apple and herbs with proper coastal freshness and restraint.

Tasting Note
Pale straw in the glass, with a fresh, expressive nose of lime, green apple and ripe peach alongside grassy herbs, bay leaf and a subtle mineral edge. The palate is crisp and dry, combining bright citrus and crunchy orchard fruit with gently herbaceous Sauvignon character. There is a little extra texture from extended time on the lees, but the wine remains wonderfully light on its feet. Fresh acidity drives everything forward, while restrained tropical notes add just enough ripeness without becoming showy. Clean, zesty and mineral on the finish, with green apple and herbs lingering behind.

Country: South Africa
Region: Western Cape
Sub-Region: Coastal Region WO
Grape(s): 100% Sauvignon Blanc
ABV: 12.5%
Friendly: Vegan, Vegetarian, Sustainable

Awards & Critics' Scores
John Platter – 3.5 Stars / 85 Points

The Story
False Bay Vineyards was born in 1994 from Paul Boutinot’s determination to prove that affordable wine did not have to mean industrial wine. He travelled through the Western Cape looking for balanced, often overlooked vineyards whose fruit was disappearing into large co-operative blends, choosing instead to make wines with minimal intervention and a strong sense of place. Windswept takes that philosophy to the coast, using Sauvignon Blanc from cool vineyards influenced by the Atlantic, where sea breezes slow ripening and help preserve natural acidity. The grapes are hand harvested, with part of the juice fermenting spontaneously with wild yeasts, before the wine spends a minimum of six months on its lees. No additions are made apart from sulphur, leaving a Sauvignon that is less about explosive tropical fruit and more about freshness, herbs, citrus and the cool maritime character behind its name.

Perfect With... (click me for the recipe)
- Meat/fish: Thai-Style Chilli and Lime Prawns with Jasmine Rice
- Vegetarian: Asparagus, goat’s cheese and herb tart
- Vegan: Courgette, broad bean and lemon orzo with herbs